thirsty merc @ ballarat woolshed

As the stage was shrouded with blue light, Ryan Hearts opened the concert with a quiet ban. Hauntingly sweet tunes alternating with an upbeat tambourine and clappy rhythm, then darker numbers. Acoustics not as good when you're standing right at the front, but lead singer's effortless schoolgirl beauty shines through the smoke machine's output. Woolshed atmosphere is as raw as the sound reverberating through your being as you stand on the wooden ground. Can't help but notice how all opening acts are similar in genre with the main act. Layering sweet ethereal voice was welcoming and warming from the cold winter air outside. Best song was as usual last, with a teenybopper climax.

Old Man River with his boisterous candy rock was next in the lineup. Almost comedic with afro-cuban hair and a lanky frame, but songs like La were infectious verbal grub with 2 melody lines! Lots of major keys with adorned guitar. Much better live than recorded, espcially the song Sunshine. A tighter band than the first opening band.

Finally at 10pm, 2 and a half hours after stated gig start time, Thirsty Merc appeared to quench the audience. Lead singer is Orlando-Bloom lookalike ruffian. Better lighting, Shadows animalist. Influenced by Bon Jovi and Silverchair. Too long breaks in between makes the crowd rowdy and impatient and a fight broke out after Thirsty Merc turned down an encore offer.