A large assemblage of punters had gathered in time for Melbourne six-piece The Hello Morning. Steven Clifford’s vocals possess an urgency, grit and aching desire that – alongside the band’s impressive guitarists and sturdy rhythm section – encouraged many fans to revel in the melodious strains of their soulful alt-country tunes, even if it was their moving cover of Wilson Pickett’s Don’t Let The Green Grass Fool You that resonated most with the crowd.
Gabrielle Huber’s ethereal vocals – floating atop shimmering keys and pummelling drums – introduced I Belong With You, one of the highlights on Dead Letter Chorus’ sophomore album, Yearlings. A gorgeous slide guitar melody exudes romanticism into the affecting ballad, and it’s evident that the Sydney quintet have solidified their love of the epic crescendo and heart-rending climax. Without pause, the majestic opening strains of Down In Your Valley – from their debut album, The August Magnificent – followed and ensured an uplifting start to their set.
The night’s momentous highs arrived in the performances of their brilliant album openers: The Peaceful Sleep Of Death and Covered By Snow. However, while the latter embodies great immediacy and emotive ascension, the former remains their most enthralling epic – one possessed with a build-up and climax that stirs and never subsides. It wasn’t surprising, however, that Run, Wild summoned the night’s most joyous moment. Enthusiastic fans danced, twisted, sang and clapped along while the band thrilled with a percussive instrumental to close tonight’s heartfelt and entertaining performance.
Loved:The Peaceful Sleep Of Death
Hated: Certainly didn’t expect DLC to cover Queen’s I Want To Break Free.
Drank: Cascade
