"SHARK" lacks a little bite

3 Aug 2010

It often feels a little odd when fairly obscure bands seem to steal the show when supporting bigger named acts. This was the case for me for the launch of the much publicised and hyped Plastics debut album "SHARK" at Assembly, where band Holiday Murray owned the show. I'm sure that the many Plastic fans who attended on Saturday would disagree with me, as The Plastics were the best received on Saturday by far - but Holiday Murray, for me, displayed skill and flair that wasn't really captured again by the other two bands of the night: Captain Stu and The Plastics.

Taking a little holiday

It was my first time hearing Holiday Murray and I was impressed by their quirky folksy rock style. Consisting of Jame Stuft, Ellis Silverman, Justin Davenport and Chris Carter, Holiday Murray lives up to their name and feels like a little refreshing holiday from the humdrum.

I really want to like Captain Stu, I do I do - they seem like nice guys who don't take themselves too seriously (in the good way), have happy bouncy songs and lyrics and perform without shoes - buuut it seems like the band are still trying to find their feet after the loss of former lead Nick Key and the switcheroo of James Klopper from backing vocals and guitarist to front man. That said, I believe that with the release of their new album they will rise a faster, better, stronger Captain Stu and this awkward transitional phase will be a thing of the past.

Things get pla-sticky

The Plastics, eager to showcase their new material, provided an entertaining show with guest artists Paul Maree of The Beams helping out on synth and four ladies with strings added for the song Jukebox. The band kept the energy hyped throughout and, towards the end of their set, it was a free for all for a couple of eager crowd surfers who braved the depths of the shark- (and bouncer) infested waters. One talented gentleman even managed to drink a beer while surfing, impressive indeed.

It is a pity that the album launch didn't really live up to my expectations, as I was a fan of "SHARK", but somehow the maturity and catchiness of the album wasn't really captured at the launch. Perhaps these are just a few teething problems and, as the band becomes more comfortable with performing their new material, they will once again hook audiences with a massive toothy bite. Here's hoping.

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