Experimental rockers Battles bring their energetic show to Sydney

Battles

By Courtney Dabb, Rock At Night Sydney Correspondent

Venue: Manning Bar, Sydney–Battles and Making–February 10, 2016

Rock At Night was lucky enough to catch the bands Battles  on their Australian leg of their worldwide tour. Battles put on an outstanding show as guitarist Ian Williams alternated between guitar and keys throughout the show—clearly he is a monster on both instruments and performs like there is no tomorrow. He reminded me so much of Jon Spencer (“Blues Explosion”) both physically and musically in this respect. Bassist Dave Konopka appeared to be clearly enjoying himself on stage as he worked a multitude of fx pedals, creating loops and a kicked off virtually every track. Drummer Mark (“Cain and Tomahawk”) had the tallest cymbal in history that was perched 6 feet above the drum riser. He had to reach and take lunges just to strike it.

Guest singer Marcus Whale of Collarbones/Black Vanilla fame was an odd but smart addition to Making. Generally known for his dance music and high energy on stage performances, he was rather subdued so as to fit in with the metal, drone sounds of Making—but moments of dance did burst through at times.

PHOTO GALLERY

Battles

Making

 

 

VIDEO

Battles at Manning Bar, Sydney

 

 

WEBSITE-Battles

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Courtney Dabb

Forest Live Festival – UK

Forest Live Festival – UK