Sunday, 21 December 2008

Bawley (Hearts) 2008: Bawley crew concerts of the year: Nick

5. Malcolm Middleton, Hopetoun Hotel, Sydney, March

It was almost uncomfortable but utterly engrossing to watch Malcolm Middleton, with only an acoustic guitar for company, singing some incredibly bleak and personal songs in this tiny, intimate venue. Gigs don't get much more raw than this.

4. Goldfrapp, Opera House, Sydney, October

The opposite extreme: Goldfrapp, with full band and fourteen piece string section, making an awesome noise under the world's most famous roof. (FasterLouder Review)

3. The National, City Recital Hall, Sydney, January

It takes a very special band to mesmerise a crowd in a soulless, library-like venue like the City Recital Hall. The National are a very special band. 'About Today' was epic.

2. Sufjan Stevens, State Theatre, Sydney, January

Brass, woodwind, a pitch-perfect voice and an encore that included hula-hooping. Magnificent.

1. Bloc Party, Hordern Pavillion, Sydney, November

They came, they saw, they conquered. A perfect set, a super-tight performance and a spectacular light show helped Bloc Party tear the Hordern Pavilion to pieces.

Runners Up:

MGMT, Birmingham Academy, Eels, Enmore Theatre, Band Of Horses, Metro Theatre

1 comment:

Hummer said...

You are starting to sound a little like k-rad. Re: Bloc Party review.