After a massive year, indie jazz punks Jaala were back in their hometown to showcase their debut studio record, Hard Hold. Scurrying around the stage first was Melbourne artist Kirkis. He positioned himself centre stage, kneeling down with a guitar in hand and a half-height microphone. Renowned for his dreamlike vocals, synthy sounds and distorted guitar riffs, the composer’s 30-minute set exceeded expectations.
Swooping Duck soon emerged to set up the stage with a clear vision in mind. Afterwards, it was all about experimentation and improvisation. The Hiatus Kaiyote side-project features drummer Perrin Moss, bassist Paul Bender and Simon Mavin on keyboard. With their funky rhythm and truly unique flavour, it’s no wonder the boys had the audience mesmerised right from the opening note. Taking the time for “conceptual requests”, the group were soon testing out the sounds of space porn.
It wasn’t long until the identifiable voice of Cosima Jaala was echoing around the upstairs band room. She, along with band members Maria Moles (drums), Loretta Wilde (bass) and Nicolas Lam (guitar), took the stage by storm. Salt Shaker set them off on a sublime showcase of their debut record’s track list. With a blue-lit, smoke filled stage, the sultry singer/songwriter serenaded both long-time fans and the stragglers that are just catching on. With a live sound almost identical to the studio version of the break up album, the group have perfected their craft. This is especially true of the frontwoman herself, who has vocal cries and flawless licks for days.
BY PHOEBE ROBERTSON
Loved: Kirkis’ level of concentration
Hated: Unisex toilets, still not a fan.
Drank: Vodka downstairs, Midori upstairs.
