Jan Wisniewski, Journalist

Kurt Vile topped 2013 for Jan Wisniewski.

A more-than-impressive night from two international bands in their finest form, providing the perfect antidote to a bout of Splendour-envy.

It's all over, and we won't be seeing these boys again until they are a much bigger prospect.

A live show for the rock purists from a band who manage to bring a slice of America’s heartland to Melbourne.

But for those who are great fans of Ballard and Dyson, the chance to relive these moments is merit enough for this release.

The show doesn't always flow easily and at times there are gaps between the big laughs but this doesn't affect enjoyment levels as Davis’ flawed-but-personable delivery seems perfect for the room and her audience (something she manages to convey in homemade-chart form).

Ilic comes across a little like the “cool lecturer” but fortunately none of his subject matter is dry.

The final section has Long contemplating her life at 30, and when the show closes many are appreciating the lighting-quick mind of Josie Long.

His raw delivery is sobering but there is no self-pity in Fleet's words and his interjections of wit (and some great accents) keep things from becoming too dour.

You have to be seriously committed to catch acts at opposite ends of Sydney Road and even more tenacious to drag a group past the colours and smells of the food and goods stalls.