When Lowtide took to the stage at Northcote Social Club they generated a haze of water-glycerine, reverb and shoe-gaze/dream-pop romance. They were here launching their new Julia/Spring double A-side 7” and invited The Shifters and Parading to support them.
First up were The Shifters. American Attitude showed their unique understated post-punk sound. Though, pairing a steady, slow-ish beat with open guitars strummed in time to the drummer almost felt like an ironic jab at minimalism.
Parading were up next and they delivered their ambient psych rock to an increasingly busy bandroom. Butterfly has a slight poppy sound, cleverly juxtaposed against the lead guitarist’s clinical and expert latherings of feedback. He was orchestrating it like a conductor from the side of the stage; a servant to his amplifier, his guitar held out like an offering. The frontman was as laidback as they come; the drummer channelling Ferris Bueller with a similar haircut and a taupe tweed jacket. Flying was super heavy and a beautiful mess. I closed my eyes at one point and just let the noise take over.
When Lowtide came on the room was full. Records were disappearing from the merch desk at breakneck speed. They opened with Whale. The stage lights were pink and yellow, and it was as if they were playing on a cloud. The feedback made everyone unconsciously sway. It was like an orchestra for modern times. We all quickly fell in love.
Held showcased a distorted vocal overlay, with Julia making me dissolve into the collective energy of the room as the lead guitarist worked his 13-odd pedals to great effect. Spring (from the new 7”) was the stand out track of the night. The super simple bass line in the verse was a nice touch amid a multi-layered sound that proved why this band are doing so well.
BY SAM FREESTONE
Loved: Lowtide’s stage presence.
Hated: Not buying Lowtide’s 7”.
Drank: Coffee.
