It was a ladies night (of sorts) at Pivo Pivo. Four female-fronted acts performing to a minimal crowd. Whatever happened to men? In any case, The Bluesbunnies were out in force. Here's what went down.
On came The Primary School. Fronted by an eye-catching blonde, they deliver a fallacious lo-fi indie-pop sound that fails to scale any notable heights. "Break Up Blues", while sounding rather bare, led to a Bluesbunny debate. Lead singer and guitarist Sofie is no Joan Jett and is perhaps more of a Patty Loveless-type chanteuse. While there's plenty of scope for the band to improve in the indie category, it might be more fulfilling for them to venture solidly into country music. At least, so we thought.
I don't think anyone in the venue (aside the soundman) was prepared for Audiodeluxe. Merging electronics, awkward guitar and middling vocals, Audiodeluxe are a recipe for disaster. Only it was apparent that front woman Sammy knew this already, and played off it. While Sammy looked totally at ease onstage, guitarist Dez looked to be elsewhere. This observation rang true as they played at different keys on Gerry Rafferty's "Baker Street". While it's impossible to deny the duo the right to enjoy themselves in a live capacity, it's equally impossible to see them ever establishing themselves on the live circuit.
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In a similar vein, 2Storeys took to the stage. Only, with this act, there came purpose. Essentially, they are a live chillout act, a seasoned group of musicians who have come together to create an ambient sound that flip-flopped in its effectiveness. Songs such as Sleepless" suggested that they are too good to be a mere pop band, and have made it their mission to deliver elaborate pop music. "Call Me" - not the Blondie classic - implemented a nice portion of funk into the mix, but failed to live up to the "sleazy" sound promised by singer Angie. The set came to a strong conclusion on "Control". Whether this band will draw fans to their live shows is yet to be seen, but on the basis of this performance, they're at least worth a look-in.
Louise Against The Elements were our headliners. Looking at frontwoman Louise, you'd do well to remember that it's cold outside. The band began their set with "On A Saturday Night", and despite the vocals being somewhat drowned out initially, the course of the set had already been established. Louise's onstage charisma was far greater than those before her and the band seemed to be enjoying the occasion as well. There's a clear magnetism that emanates from Louise's onstage behaviour and songs such as "Rollin' in Honey" were evidence enough of that. Accordingly, her band plays off that and they have a great formula for great pop music.
There we have it. A good time had by all. Now for sleep. Yes, even the Bluesbunny sleeps.