12.11.07
It’s not for the cock, it’s for a white Liar.
HTRK, Liars/Rescue Rooms/30.11.07
Despite hailing from the New York scene which can boast some of the biggest and most influential acts in the world, including Interpol, Yeah Yeahs Yeahs and The Strokes, Liars are a treasured cult act respected and even adored by those who know their music but more often than not they are completely off the radar of those who don’t. Not only has the band seen many changes in line up but also in style and it is this that has earned them legions of often beyond loyal fans.
Tonight they are supported by Berlin-based Australian band HTRK (pronounced hate rock) whose almost monotonous performance somewhat fails to match, or even come close to, the headliners in stylistic diversity. Although their opener’s wonderfully slow pounding bass mixed with Jonnie Standish’s sultry vocals creates a filthy and undeniably sexy track neither their performance or sound develops throughout the set and intrigue and optimism are slowly but surely replaced by boredom.
This boredom is instantly dispelled by the exquisitely weird and charismatic Angus Andrew and his band. Dressed in a white suit Angus‘ purposeful entrance to the stage is met by enthusiastic applause from their audience. However the opening of their first song, along with Jim Carrey style moves coming thick and fast from Mr. Andrew, provokes little more than occasional head nodding from those in the audience which admittedly only takes up about half the venue. Angus also makes numerous references to his location tonight by changing lyrics and song titles to include Sherwood Forest and Robin Hood and although at times this borders on patronising the comments are always in good humour.
Although to band reach right back to their early material tonight they predominantly stick to this year’s self titled release. ‘Plaster Casts Of Everything’ is easily the most commercial song of the album and this is not only saved for (pre-encore) last but also for Andrew’s most enthusiastic performance of the evening which leaves the audience demanding more to the point were an audience member climbs on the stage only to disrupt what would have been a triumphant return from the band.
HTRK-Ha
Liars-It Fit When I Was A Kid
Liars-Plaster Casts Of Everything
We’re (I’m) having a bit of trouble uploading tracks at the moment but these ones will hopefully be up soon!