It’s testament to Palm Springs’ appeal that the crowd is already teeming for their set. While singer Erica Dunn jokes that her songs are depressing, there is an uplifting quality to them enhanced by the band’s precision. Tracks Winning & Losing and Sweet Concrete are the most memorable of the set and showcase Dunn’sawe-inspiring ability as a lyricist.
Tim Richmond Group play songs from their new album What’s In The Middle? withmelodic guitars and an insistent bass key to the band’s sound. Richmond’s languid manner of singing makes for an interesting contrast with the energy of his live band, but rather than overpower, the two components work together to find the perfect balance.
Cable Ties give the audience no time to settle in between songs as they power through their set. Same For Me boasts the biggestchorus of the night and cements the band’s current status as one of the acts in Melbourne on the cusp of something huge. The last song of the set Say What You Mean has the most impact, with lead singer Jenny Mckekers passionately exclaiming “I am not a production unit, I am a human being” to great effect.
If there’s anything you get out of tonight, people really love to say the name Suss Cunts, with every possible opportunity taken to exclaim the band’s name in all its glory. A running gag is the many references to the band being self proclaimed Rockdogs, with lead singer Nina Renee proving her Rockdog status while performing on the floor as her mic stand collapsed. The band’s onstage banter is golden with 10 Years introduced as being about “Sleeping with a lot of people and not being able to remember what they look like naked.” Sweater Vests and Shit Friend are a triumphant and chaotic close to the set, with the band expressing their eternal gratitude to the sold out crowd and everyone involved in the EP’s creation.
While the songs on the EP capture the band’s incredible energy, it’s clear that seeing the band live is when you’re going to get them in their prime. Given the band are already significantly prolific, it’s inevitable that the phrase ‘That’s so Suss Cunts’ will become part of inner Melbourne’s daily vocabulary.
WORDS BY HOLLY PEREIRA
IMAGE BY ANNA MADDEN
Loved: Seeing so many legends on stage and in the crowd.
Hated: Making poorly timed visits to the bar.
Drank: Schooners of Coopers. Classic Gaso.
