In its six years of existence Bedroom Suck Records has come to embody what it means to be independent and innovative in the Australian music scene. Run by all round nice guy and drumming extraordinaire Joe Alexander, the label is home to some of the most unassuming, genuinely talented people making music at the moment.
Opening the night is Pillow Pro who invite the audience into their world of ambient infused R&B and self described “lounge lux beats for the bedroom”. The duo are completely in sync, from their matching outfits down to their seamless harmonies, displaying the kind of intimacy that could never be forced. Up next is Childsaint who have travelled from Western Australia to make their east coast debut. Playing with a quiet conviction the band make a strong impression with their shoegaze inspired sound and overall cohesiveness.
Lower Plenty bring things down a touch with their melancholy set, playing songs from their much loved back catalogue alongside new songs due to be released on an album later in the year. The band are reserved on stage apart from a few smirks shared between band members, but still captivate with their sparse arrangements and emotive lyricism.
In stark contrast Terrible Truths transfer their uncontained energy to the crowd, cramming as many of their blistering anthems into the half an hour set. Their live shows are always edge of your seat affairs characterised by an intense rhythm section complimented perfectly by Stacey Wilson and Rani Rose’s intimidating vocals.
Totally Mild wrap things up with their glorious signature sound that combines lead singer Liz Mitchell’s blissful vocals and wonderfully melodic guitars. Their music glides at a pace that sits perfectly in the middle of upbeat and downtempo, making it easy enough to get a good sway going without feeling overly conscious of any poorly timed dance moves.
Above all there’s a real sense that Bedroom Suck is more than just a record label. Alexander has established an amazing community that serves as a platform for all kinds of sonic and artistic experiments each unique in their intrigue. A showcase to celebrate his achievements every year is certainly warranted.
BY HOLLY PEREIRA
Loved: That each band were a highlight.
Hated: Not getting cash out to buy merch.
Drank: Expensive wine to reach the EFTPOS minimum.
