The Parlotones at The Barnyard in MIO

I have finally made peace with the fact that I will never have enough cash to do what I want to do, so have decided to accept kind gestures and gifts from my friends. This, fantastically, meant that I could go see another Parlotones gig and relive the good times!

The idea of watching a band in a theatre has never really appealed to me. It could be the likeliness of an ABBA or Barry Manilo cover sneaking it’s way into the door; it could also be my phobia of being trapped in a small room full of strangers; or even the awkward intervals where there is only time for a bit of small talk, a wee and a coke – but I cowboy’d myself up and pushed my way through a packed room to our table and made myself comfortable.

I really didn’t think this ‘gig in a theatre’ thing could be pulled off…but, it is the Parlotones, and I have seen them liven up a crowd with the energy of road kill before, so I gave them the benefit of the doubt.

I was captivated from the second they started. The sound was excellent – easy to notice as 99% of the gigs I see are usually at some dingy club with a R500 PA system, or a blown speaker.

What added to the experience is that they brought in the signature Parlotones theatrical element. The guy-liner that has the “a Clockwork Orange” feel to it, the outfit changes, and Kahn’s creative dance moves that could put Napoleon Dynamite to shame. They keep the stage alive throughout the performance to the point that you just don’t want it to end.

Their set included old favorites off “RadioControlledRobot”, more favorites from their “A World Next Door To Yours” album as well as a sneak preview of favortites-to-be from their new album which is due to be released in November. They catered for both the radio single junkies as well as the die hard fans (of the music – not the movie) who remember The Parlotones as the guys who would stutter stutter and wear scarves in a 35 degree heatwave. If nothing else, you need to check out the medley they have crafted together – nice one guys!

It is a Barnyard necessity to include some covers, and I was elated when the ones that were chosen were all in good taste: the Beatles and Bob Dylan cracked the nod.

So, my advice is that you should jump on the Barnyard tour bandwagon – you will be totally surprised, awed and generally have an unforgettable night. Yet another example as to why The Parlotones are an SA favorite.

Source: http://www.mio.co.za/article/the-parlotones-at-the-barnyard-theatre-2009-07-30

Voodoo Child, Back2Basix

Clauds, Kez, Cands, The Deane and myself hooked up with friends, Sarah and Claire, at Back2Basix on Saturday night, to watch Voodoo Child. I enjoy the chilled vibe of this venue and the fact that every time I’ve been there, either the entrance or the stage have moved. Or both.

Re-Play were the first opening act, and were just as impressive as the first time I saw them a few months ago at Cool Runnings. They have recently released their debut album, so keep an eye out for that!

The Sick Leaves were really noisy, and I didn’t find them very interesting. I do have to give them credit, though, for keeping it together in one song where the lead singer’s mic packed in and their drum kit dismantled itself. They are not a band I would go watch again, but they do seem to have some dedicated fans.

There is no doubt that Voodoo Child is one of SA’s top bands – they are definitely in my top 3. Their version of “Come Together” (yes, that same old Beatles song) is getting extensive air-play at the moment, and the song is the first track on Julio Garcia’s “The Cover” album. Every time I see them, their following has grown and their performance is tighter. Lebo (singer) is great at interacting with the crowd and his soulful voice and funky vibe, keep people captivated throughout the entire set. They have a very professional sound, and each member of the band has an enormous amount of talent. You need to go check them out!