THE MORNING NIGHT

Lucy Peach / The Deep River Collective / David And Nathalie / The Fremantle Ukulele Collective / Richard Lane / Elk Bell
Mojos Bar
Saturday, March 31, 2012

The most punctual of punters who rocked up to Mojos Bar on Saturday evening were greeted by the dulcet tones of Elk Bell, easing them into the night with her acoustic melancholia. As the crowd continued to gather, the mood was lightened by blues virtuoso Richard Lane, alternating between his own Clapton-esque acoustic compositions and interpretations of classics like Rolling Stones’ Little Red Rooster.

The stage, having been warmed by solo acts of sultriness and subtle smarm, was soon filled with the eight-strong Fremantle Ukulele Collective, who strummed along, stumbling only occasionally, to crowd pleasing covers of ‘80s hits. The group was later joined by four female vocalists in a quirky, simplified rendition of Talking Heads’ Road To Nowhere, from which an all in sing-a-long ensued.

Next up were David And Nathalie (comprised of two members of The Big Old Bears), who commanded the attention of expectant friends, family and fans of the headliners, filling the room with squirming anticipation. David Craft, channeling Johnny cash through a combination of dark attire and country rhythm, was contrasted beautifully by Natalie Pavlovic’s smooth dark vocals. Beginning their set with fast paced, toe-tapping tunes, the mood then shifted with the introduction of dark harmonies and brooding love ballads. The pair finished up with an endearing collaboration on the keyboard in a display of skillful versatility.

With the smell of incense filling the room, The Deep River Collective took to the stage, sans shoes, reminding everyone they were in Freo. Starting off with slow, familiar psychedelic blues, a well performed version of Black Magic Woman fulfilled a necessary increase in pace. Jamie Canny (Hurricane Fighter Plane) provided the welcome introduction of saxophone (and footwear), resulting in a soulful funk sound.

Lucy Peach followed, her dark vocals and assured stage presence like that of a folk/pop cross between Joan Jet and Stevie Nicks. The modestly refined presence of Nick Vasey on guitar added depth to the yearning lyrics. The more upbeat songs of the set inciting Mojos icon Dancing John to take to the dance floor, spurring others to join in, preparing the crowd for the final and most anticipated act of the night.

By the time The Morning Night graced the stage to launch their debut album Otis the room was heaving. With their unique blend of guitar-laden country pop, the six-piece didn’t disappoint.

Despite dislocating his arm backstage prior to the show, frontman Adrian Hoffman’s well oiled musicianship didn’t appear to suffer. Coasting through songs off both their EP Decide What You Want and their new release, the band brimmed with quiet confidence. Part way through their hour and a half long set, Ed Smith traded guitar for violin, lending a third dimension to the group’s already multi-faceted appeal.

The headlining performance was lengthy for a local act, limiting variety in parts, but otherwise an excellent showcase of fresh new music and a great way to warm up and welcome the first of many wintery nights.

_ASHLEIGH WHYTE