OZ Beat: Music That Matters

The Cooper Temple Clause

The best of plans--go so awry. I got to see TCTC in Toronto and it ranks as one of the best shows in my life. What I saw in NYC (about a 40-45 minute show) was not just doubled--but 10-fold. 15 songs stretching over 1.5 hours and all on fire. Was lucky to be standing at the stage in a great club--Lee's Palace. Even copped the set list. The crowd screamed for more after the band left and the music was turned up and the lights on. The band literally brought tears to my eyes. Songs like "Did You Miss Me" completely changed when used toward the end of the set instead of an opener like in NYC.

CMJ Reviews: TCTC, PGMG and The Gossip

I took brief notes throughout the shows at CMJ and will post from them tomorrow. I'll send separate messages so you can read about the bands you care about. Neil, the idea to take notes was good—and trying to decipher them is turning out to be priceless. I stayed up from Saturday morning through my flight out Sunday around 10:30 and must get sleep. One last note on The Carlsonics. It was the only band at CMJ that impressed me enough to buy their CD (a lot of the bands I already own their releases). The shrink wrap has a sticker on it that impressed me in so many ways. It is a quote from Tony Fletcher, author of Keith Moon: A Biography. He says "The Carlsonics sound like -----, move like ------ and rock like The -------." The Carlsonics obviously don't like being compared to other bands so they blacked out (with magic marker) all the other band references. I guess I'll never know who Fletcher compared them to--but I like that The Carlsonics want the listener to take them as they are without comparisons. I haven't had a chance to spin their disc yet but it is top priority tomorrow.
--Dem

The Cooper Temple Clause

I got to see two shows by The Cooper Temple Clause over the weekend in Sydney and Melbourne. They are fantastic live. One friend I'd lent the CD to come along under protest but after 1 song he was "they're really good"… Afterwards he said the CD was a bit too all over the place but it worked live, so even if you don't like the CD, go see them live, it is worth it. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING live!!!!!

I asked about US tour a bit late in the evening (about 6am). They had intended to do some showcase gigs earlier this year - NY, SXSW, LA, but had visa problems. I think the problems were more due to everything taking too long due to Sept 11 rather than actual problems, but time ran out and it didn't happen. They are hoping to get there this year, but I'm not sure if it was just showcase or a proper tour. Poor boys have no idea of the distances in US, typical English. I really should've thought to ask earlier in the night... They're lovely friendly approachable guys.

The Sydney show was basically about 90% industry guest list, so the word is obviously not out here yet! They're meant to be back in January for the Big Day Out festival - that'll be 3 visits to Australia in less than 12 months - unheard of I tell you!
--Melanie

The Cooper Temple Clause

I got to see two shows by The Cooper Temple Clause over the weekend in Sydney and Melbourne. They are fantastic live. One friend I'd lent the CD to come along under protest but after 1 song he was "they're really good"… Afterwards he said the CD was a bit too all over the place but it worked live, so even if you don't like the CD, go see them live, it is worth it. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING live!!!!!

I asked about US tour a bit late in the evening (about 6am). They had intended to do some showcase gigs earlier this year - NY, SXSW, LA, but had visa problems. I think the problems were more due to everything taking too long due to Sept11 rather than actual problems, but time ran out and it didn't happen. They are hoping to get there this year, but I'm not sure if it was just showcase or a proper tour. Poor boys have no idea of the distances in US, typical English. I really should've thought to ask earlier in the night... They're lovely friendly approachable guys.

The Sydney show was basically about 90% industry guest list, so the word is obviously not out here yet! They're meant to be back in January for the Big Day Out festival - that'll be 3 visits to Australia in less than 12 months - unheard of I tell you!
--Melanie
[Australia]

TCTC / Idlewild / Wannadies / Ash

For what it's worth, I was looking forward to the Cooper Temple Clause album, and must admit I was a little disappointed. But they are an exciting proposition live so if you like what you've heard by them I'd definitely make the effort to see them.

The new Idlewild album is their best yet, but they are more of an acquired taste. Unless you've heard a few tracks I wouldn't go buying blind. However, if you are in the US, I'd highly recommend the Ash album "Free All Angels", as I believe it's been issued at a regular price with bonus tracks and a free 70 minute DVD. Those feeling less bold might like to wait a few months for Ash's "Greatest Hits" which features all their UK A Sides plus a second disc with B Sides, live stuff etc. However, that may not be released outside Europe for a while (if at all). Ash are at the poppier end of the indie spectrum. Although they know how to rock out, you won't hear tons of JAMC droning or feedback - just high speed punkers playing great songs for the kids. Recommended.

Saw The Wannadies on Friday. These guys do the indie/powerpop thing to perfection. Quite how they've managed to avoid being massive is beyond me. Keep an eye out for anything by them. OK - next time I'll post about some really obscure white noise merchants! :-)
--NeilM
[England]