We arrived at the launch slightly later than we bargained for due to the grim weather conditions, making it just in time. The rain didn’t stop anyone as the venue was absolutely packed. It might have been more comfortable for most members of the crowd if fewer tickets had been sold, but who cares about comfort? The Parlotones were about to take to the stage and that’s all that mattered!
We spent the first 15 minutes pushing our way to the front of the stage to get a better view. We got sworn at, elbowed and stood on, but eventually succeeded and landed a sweet spot right next to the stage. The stage, as well as everything (and we mean EVERYTHING) on it was covered in tin foil. All the instruments, stands, amps, mics, wires, even some beer bottles had been covered. Glen even had a tin foil tie on at some point. It was like the aluminium version of King Midas. Between the foil and the screens all over the room – the setting was great and really effective. If you have any questions about the foil, check out the new album cover and it will all come together.
The guys played two sets mixing much loved songs from their previous album “RadioControlledRobot” in with their new material. It was such an awesome vibe that it’s difficult to say whether the band or the crowd were having a better time. Kahn pulled out his signature dance moves, which kept everyone endlessly entertained. Some people joined in – including two young versions of Kahn who can now add ‘role model’ and ‘trend setter’ to his credit.
Local musicians joined in the fun, including Sean Murphy from Evolver, who assisted Glen on keyboards for most the songs. He also did backing vocals, wore the make-up, styled his hair and tin foiled out his keyboards, making him the honorary Parlotone for the night. Other artists included one of the girls from Electro Muse, Cito (who was around to hit some of the high notes), Martin and Danny from Wonderboom. There was also a children’s choir who unfortunately couldn’t really be heard above the huge crowd, but added to the effect.
It can’t be put it more plainly – this album is going to be a hit! We weren’t sure how they were going to match up to RadioControlledRobot, but this album does it. The songs are a step in a slightly more mature direction with the sound just as distinctive. The lyrics have a different type of substance, more of a storyline and a common thread throughout. Musically, it is addictive and the songs complete each other almost in the same way as a good movie soundtrack would.
Once the band had disappeared back stage, it seemed for a moment they were going to skip the encore. It took a desperate plea from an audience member who climbed on stage, grabbed a mic, and begged for another song. The band came back and sang “Louder than Bombs” followed by their current single “Giant Mistake”. Throughout these last songs, a couple of crazy fans (the Kahn look-alikes) were jumping around on stage and singing along, much to the amusement of, well, just about everybody there!
On our way out in the early hours of Friday morning, the guys were still signing everything from albums covers to lower backs and there were still quite few people waiting their turn. The evening was over way too soon, and the most anticipated album launch of 2007 was a great success. If you haven’t got your album yet, you are leaving it way too late…
Reviewed by Kez & Clauds
