Opening the set with Song Of Drowning Men, an apt tune when standing on the dance floor, where the ghosts of a thousand pick up lines haunt you, Gentle Ben stalked the stage like a possessed matador with his eyes on the prize. Tomorrow Afternoon shimmered in all its pop glory, and the deranged lullaby that is Lay Down With Me evoked a respected hush from the audience. Dogs Of Valparaiso was as vicious as ever, Gentle Bens savage howls preparing his vocal chords for the approaching onslaught of Six Ft Hick.
While the Sensitive Side sweet talk you and seal the deal, Six Ft Hick take you home and show you a night you won’t forget. Abrasive guitar and thunderous bass filled the Retreat back bar as the Hick opened with Nervous Ticks, followed up swiftly with Ashtray, and after some coaxing from Geoff Corbett the ‘no go’ zone at the front of the stage was filled. Why wouldn’t you want to be closer to a man sporting ‘never nude’ style cut offs and performing an array of hilarious dance moves (spirit fingers included), an ironic contrast to the Jesus Lizard/Beasts Of Bourbon style rock’n’roll they play. Gentle Ben’s hand firmly down the front of his pants signified the sleazy sounds of Live Girls and by Flight Of The Shitbird he was dripping with sweat crawling through the crowd while Geoff got up close and personal with any audience member that would have him. Ending with the classic Daddy’s Home, Six Ft Hick left the Sunday punters with a vigorous sense that the primal and raw origins of rock ‘n’ roll are still alive and kickin’ hard.
BY KRYSTAL MAYNARD
LOVED: Missing being fly kicked in the head by Gentle Ben.
HATED: That no blood was spilt this time…
DRANK: Vodka and soda with fresh lime.
