HEADLINER: SOUTHERN RIVER BAND
SUPPORTS: HOT MACHINE / BRIXTON ALLEY
DATE: 7TH SEPTEMBER 2024
REVIEWER: MERT TYSON
PHOTOGRAPHER: MERT TYSON PHOTOGRAPHY
Wow, what a night in Brisvegas! The Backroom Brisbane never disappoints, and the staff are always top-notch. But let’s get to the real stars of the show—the bands that rocked the roof off last night!
The Southern River Band is tearing up the country on their D.I.Y Australian Album Tour, leaving a trail of mayhem and epic performances in their wake. If you haven’t caught them live yet, you’re seriously missing out on something special. Joining them on this wild ride were Melbourne’s own Hot Machine and the incredible Brixton Alley. Talk about a dream lineup!
Hot Machine kicked things off, and these ladies absolutely destroyed the Backroom. Their musicianship and hard rock vibes were off the charts. Think modern-day Runaways, but even better! Big call, I know, but they totally nailed it. The energy was electric from the first note, and you could see they were having an absolute blast. The crowd was right there with them, making it at amazing start to the night. I really want anyone reading this to keep an eye on this band because they have the making of something really special the music industry so desperately needs, they will be a force to be reckoned with they have the look, the fire, the attitude, the talent and have a damn good time doing it. What a curtain raiser and warmup!
Brixton Alley never disappoints with their high-energy display of pure class! These UK best mates are honorary Aussies now, and we’re claiming them! I could barely keep my camera focused on Ben as he darted from one end of the stage to the other without missing a beat. His bass lines, mixed with Johnny’s killer vox and guitar riffs along with Alex’s rock-solid drumming, created a sound that was nothing short of electrifying. These guys know how to put on a show.
So many highlight to this performance my standout “Pumped up Kicks.” It was such a pleasure seeing these guys as I haven had that opportunity to this point, being one of my go to bands this really made the evening special.
The energy of Brixton is insane! Thanks for a killer set guys I’m sure you have made a few more friends in Brisbane after that one, look forward to seeing you again soon on the road.
SRB The Southern River Band – I first caught these guys opening for The Darkness and thought, “Who are these guys? We’ve got a live one here!” I almost decided to arrive later, but man, between Cal’s Canberra meat pie dilemma and their killer rock tunes, I realized I was so wrong. This band is amazing.
I had to persuade a few mates (cough!) to let me snap some pics and catch The Southern River Band again, but I missed their last Zoo show. What can I say? I love these guys! I love you, Cal… Man love, bro! They smashed out classic SRB songs with energy: “Chasing After Love,” “Watch Yourself, You’re Gonna Hurt Somebody,” “The Streets Don’t Lie,” “Do You Miss Me?” and even a bit of Steve Miller with those harmonies of “You Keep on Rocking Me Baby! In my head.
Cal is a larrikin, keeping the banter rolling. It’s a laugh a minute with these lads—they’re clearly having a blast, and it shows. The guitars of Cal and Dan are a rock ‘n’ roll powerhouse, coupled with an amazing backline of Tyler and Pat, making them the dream team.
What an amazing night of jamming rock ‘n’ roll! It feels like you’re in a backyard hanging with your mates. They had a massive support network from the gallery, chatting with two lovely ladies who I’m sure Cal wouldn’t be happy with being second best! Lucky you delivered.
I looked around the packed backroom, and everyone was having a fun time. The show was electric, entertaining, skilful (i.e., talented motherfuckers), and so bloody Australian! Seriously, see these lads and the other amazing bands on this tour—you will not regret it. You are in for a spectacular night of fun and rock ‘n’ roll.
Thank you SRB, Hot Machine & Brixton Alley!
Cheers, Mert
