Live Review: The Love Junkies, Skyways Are Highways, Ohms

30 May 2016 | 1:56 pm | Mikaelie Evans

"A few stage-divers hit the ground, but are soon back on their feet again."

Commencing this evening with crunchy indie-rock rhythms are Melbourne four-piece Ohms. As assembling punters admire their stage presence, Ohms jump around the stage. Lead singer, Fiz, moves around and howls in a raw, husky style. The four-piece perform below little neon lights and their energy is contagious.

After a brief intermission, Skyways Are Highways begin. Four out of the band's five members are female and Skyways Are Highways boast a tight rhythm section. Eli Hood can certainly sing, but theirs is a generic pop-punk sound. Punters look around, seemingly confused, but appreciate the musicianship on display. After generous audience cheers, Skyways Are Highways bring their set to a close.

As all cram back into The Workers Club bandroom, The Love Junkies begin their set with the heavy beats of Mausoleum. We then get some Chemical Motivation and the crowd becomes a wave of thrashing heads. The former three-piece has now recruited an extra member, which gives The Love Junkies added power. All respond to new single I Had A Party Once enthusiastically and, within moments, there's stage diving (and stage diving attempts). It stinks of sweat in the mosh, but that doesn't dampen fan spirits.

The Love Junkies thrash about the stage, introducing songs off of their latest EP as well as older numbers. They say they're grateful for the large audience in attendance and make mention of an afterparty. Continuing to rock through their set, songs become fuel for the ongoing moshpit that widens even further. A few stage divers hit the ground, but are soon back on their feet again. Blowing On The Devil's Strumpet brings their set to a fiery close. Mitch McDonald's frustration is prominent within lyrical content and his bandmates hammer their instruments.

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