MUSIC FESTIVAL DELIVERS A STUPENDOUS CELEBRATION – BRIGHTSIDE BRISBANE BAR, 26 SEPTEMBER 2021.

4000 Records in Brisbane might only two years old but it has already developed an impressive and formidable roster in that short time. To celebrate a challenging couple of years since its inception, Chief Musical Officer John Russell organised a day long showcase for his bands – an incredible audacious feat battling COVID restrictions, a Sunday slot, school holidays, last minute cancellations and threatening weather. And, may I say, the overall apathy of the general public. You can read more about the label in my interview with Russell here.
The result was nothing short of astonishing. There were two stages – one massive, towering monolith of a stage outdoors and one more intimate indoors venue, both at Brisbane’s Brightside venue. Bands played on alternative stages and the flow between sets was oil slick smooth. I had reviewed many of the bands on the set list, some were new to me and some weren’t even on the label (a testimony to the goodwill Russell musters in the music scene as he had to fill some last minute withdrawals). Bands that sound good on record don’t necessarily cut it live, but it can be said everything single act on the bill impressed.

Back in the indoors stage, The Double Happiness exuded as much sunshine and joy that could be mustered in the sunshine state. This is a band we have covered enthusiastically for a while now: their own brand of what they label Surfgaze is a style that draws in the quirkiness and character of the B52s yet has an indelible Queensland flavour – that of the endless sunshine, salty air and a dry and irrepressible sense of humour. From their early single, the jangly ‘City’ to the recent blissful ‘Oysters Can Dream’, the band delivered the most effervescent and charming set replete with a theremin and a sparkle of on-stage ebullience that was infectious. The Double Happiness induce just that feeling, tripled. The vocal interplay, the crystal, reverberating guitar and an incandescent pop joie de vivre created a joyous vibe and a lot of dancing.
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