Unfortunately this was the last of the NGV’s Friday Nights at Monet’s Garden. If not, I’d encourage everyone to head along. People sat around a pond of floating ceramic bowls and chatted over champagne and wine, while being treated to some of Australia’s finest music talent.
Surrounded by a bright purple aura, Jae Laffer created the perfect ambience for his surroundings – with an intimate acoustic set, filled with beautifully crafted instrumentals and well-written lyrics.
Former front man of The Panics, Laffer’s tortured voice paints a picture for his music – reminiscent of Paul Kelly or R.E.M’s Michael Stipe. And considering it was the first time he’d played with the supporting band, a natural dynamic was evident.
The set consisted mostly of new material from his upcoming album, When The Iron Glows Red. The title track itself was a highlight, with deep acoustic strum. Other new tracks worth mentioning are Always So Close, which fans of The Panics will enjoy, It’s In All Of Us, featuring a stronger piano backing and Don’t Make Me Wait.
He also threw in a couple of favourites from his old band, including Sleep Like A Curse and Get Us Home.
Unfortunately for Laffer, the acoustics in the room didn’t do his sound much justice. With this type of intimate gig, there’s nothing better than a clear and crisp acoustic sound, but it was sometimes hard to hear and some of his lyrics were muffled by the sound.
Still, it was an impressive set. Let’s just hope the gallery do more of this in the summer.
BY CHRIS BRIGHT
LOVED: It’s In All Of Us
HATED: The acoustics
DRANK: Just a couple of beers
