Barfly.com.au, 09 December 2003, Gig Review

Article by: Terry Doyle


REVIEW: The Living End
Brothers Leagues Club, December 9th

Before a packed house last week at Brothers Leagues Club, Melbourne's Living End proved they are one of Australia's top concert acts, putting on one of the best shows seen in the Far North during a concert-packed 2003. By my estimation, the 1200 strong crowd was made up of 600 drinkers and 600 under 18s and the reaction of people 'goin' orf' was one of the biggest this reveiwer has witnessed for a long, long time, probably since AC/DC rocked the Showgrounds last century. Although it was the bands hits like "All Torn Down", "Prisoner of Society" etc. that had the fans goin' "ape shit", the red cordial trio's new material from their current Modern Artillery album also was well received and confirmed this exciting outfit will be at the top of the tree through 2004.

Mention must be made of the opening acts, the Casanovas, also from Melbourne, and Perth's Gyroscope, who certainly made the night all the more worthwhile. Although local original bands can justifyingly feel peeved that they missed out on getting a run in front of a decent sized crowd, I believe it is still a great opportunity for them to take a gander at some of the great emerging Aussie bands. But there again, we the paying public have had to endure some absolute crap from down south opening some of the concerts this year.

The Casanovas are one of my favourite up and comers at the moment, although the Broyce brothers have been around for quite a while. You can certainly tell they were brought up on AC/DC, the Stones and Rose Tattoo; good, no nonsense rock and roll. Living End's front man Chris Cheney said it all: "Guy Sebastian hasn't got a chance when the Casanovas are in town".

From the west Gyroscope also impressed, a young tight four piece with a mixture of guitar based songs with a bass player and drummer providing a more than solid foundation. This band had some great merchandise for sale and have a mega web site at www.gyroscope.com.au and I suggest all local 'up & comers' take a squiz and see what hard work and professionalism is all about.

Also I must make mention of the venue. What a magic venue Brothers Leagues Club has become, especially since it gives the under age fans the chance to witness these great acts. Us oldies are able to have a few neck oils at the same time. Please, please Mono, Debbie and the rest of the crew at Brothers: Keep it coming through 2004.