In a meteorological sense, it was a pretty crappy day: cold, wet and uninspiring. But there is a theory that Melbourne’s often uninviting climate is the foundation of the city’s vibrant nocturnal music culture. And so, with the Australian cricket team teetering on the edge of worldwide humiliation, I braved the shitty weather and headed to the John Curtin Hotel in search of musical enjoyment.
I’ve been on a Trilobites trip recently, having recently tracked down a vinyl copy of that band’s 1987 album Turn It Around. Openers Diana Radar aren’t completely like the Trilobites – there’s only three of them on stage, for a start – but the combination of R&B garage riffs and a latent pop sensibility was enough to make a convenient, and intentionally flattering association. More, please.
The Dull Joys aren’t dull at all, but they do offer enough joy to warm the cockles of your musical heart. There’s a little bit of Spaghetti Western in there – Under Your Dress, for a start – but not as arid as what Ennio Morricone would ideally serve up. There’s a waltz trying to infiltrate the ubiquitous 4/4 timing of rock’n’roll in French/Hurt. Sometimes it gets a bit psychedelic, like Cry Baby and Cole Wilson, though the Curtin’s compromised acoustic profile never allows you to lose your head completely.
There’s a new song chucked in for good measure, which seems to start on the back of a Dave Brubeck-inspired jazz noodle. Though, maybe that was just wishful thinking in the thrill of the moment, but it’s a good place to be drawn toward. The best times come when the band latch onto a groove and ride it off into the distance. In Passin’ Time, you can feel the indulgent chemical country atmosphere of The Byrds and Flying Burrito Brothers and a host of lesser-known acid rock casualties. You want to keep riding the groove until the sun rises, and then some more, but the journey occasionally stops short, leaving you yearning for more. However, there’s enough to make you want to come back and take the trip again.
BY PATRICK EMERY
Loved: Forgetting about the trials and tribulations of the office, just for a few hours.
Hated: Still not knowing how to navigate my way into the Curtin band room.
Drank: An American amber ale on tap.
