As I waded through the endless couples in their late 30’s and dare I say early-to-late 40’s, I worried I was at the wrong gig. I wasn’t – Something For Kate were on stage playing – but still, I was a little suspicious. Perhaps it was a Go-betweens tribute night and Something For Kate were doing their two songs. Nah it wasn’t, Something For Kate have been around for ages and Dempsey’s Adult Contemporary smash-hit solo album would have no doubt recruited some 9-to-5 couples eager for Saturday night plans. On the topic of Dempsey’s solo album, whether or not the success of the album would influence future SFK releases was an interesting point. It was certainly different and its beauty and honesty was undeniable.
The third night of their sold-out Corner Hotel shows was a Monday treat. Live, they are pros. There may well have been a CD playing over the speakers as it was note perfect and Dempsey’s trademark husky harrowing vocals sat perfectly over the mix with every dark joke and cynical jest easy to distinguish amongst the noise. First single Survival Expert was well received and that was followed with old favorites Anchorman and Jerry, Stand Up which were played with as much urgency and intensity as ever. First track from the new album Star Crossed Citizen was banging and third track (and arguably their best song as a trio to date) Private Rain was delivered with the conviction of a band playing their first show. Dempsey’s vulnerable, Springsteen-esque delivery on this tune should be the starting point of every song they do from here on in. Says me. And that’s gotta be worth something, right? Paul? Steph? Clint? On the topic of Steph: gosh darn-it she has the nonchalant bass babe thing down pat. And now she’s a mum…which only makes it more jaw-dropping. The fella playing the extra guitar and keys nailed every single harmony, at times even stealing the spotlight from Dempsey, which was as surprising as it was perfect. Geez these stalwarts have still got some tasty treats in their hampers.
BY JACK PARSONS
LOVED: SFK back in action!
HATED: Feeling like I was in Row Z seat Z at Rod Laver Arena, loitering by the merch desk.
DRANK: It was Monday. Prune Juice.
