Song Of The Week: Anyway by Slum Sociable

February 17, 2015 | vinylgarden

Slum Sociable are a duo from Mordialloc in Victoria with some serious sass. Their debut recording “Anyway” is at times electronic, bringing to mind the delicate sound of producers like Cashmere Cat, while at other times it oozes cool jazz undertones with a constantly moving hop beat. Give it a listen:

I personally love the tinny vocal sound in this track – it gives a neat sense of nostalgia while the production values modernise the feel.

It’s only fitting Slum Sociable should be joining the very smooth group Mansionair (who rocked Laneway) for two gigs at Newtown Social Club on March 8 and 9. Be there or be square-shaped, Sydney-siders.

By Erin Rooney

Song of the Week: M.O.B by Tkay Maidza

February 11, 2015 | vinylgarden

In addition to being one of our fave acts at Laneway, Tkay Maidza has really outdone herself on her new track, “M.O.B”, AKA ‘Money Over Bitches’.

Featuring a future-esque DJ track provided by DJ Elk, and sounding much like Wave Racer, this song certainly brings a fun and playful beat into the mix. The lyrics are also perhaps a little cheekier than we’re used to from Tkay, representing her goals to her future self to work hard and prioritise real goals over dumb things. Give it a listen:

I for one am super excited to see how Tkay Maidza grows as a performer and a writer over the next couple of years. At just 18 years old, mark my words, she is one to watch! I will be sure to catch her next week at the Mountain Sounds Festival.

By Erin Rooney

Best Moments of Sydney Laneway Festival

February 6, 2015 | vinylgarden

Happy Friday everyone! I have festival fever a bit at the moment, so couldn’t help but head along to Laneway Festival on the weekend and enjoy all the incredible acts it had to offer.

Besides being full of good-looking folk dressed in hipster attire, the bands were definitely a highlight – that and the food. Between Mary’s burgers and Messina gelato flavours designed specifically for the event, we were spoilt for choice.

But anyway, onto the musicians, who were amazing. Here are my top acts, with some definitely to watch:

1. Mansionair

I was very disappointed to find only two recordings by these very handsome (and talented) dudes online – but make no mistake, their set was one of the highlights of the day. Featuring beats nearly as dirty as Glass Animals’ and a vocalist definitely as silky smooth, they truly rocked their early and short set. I will certainly be heading along to one of their solo shows in the future. Check out this little ditty:

2. Tkay Maidza

While Tkay has come under some criticism for her releases thus far, I’ll bet the critics haven’t seen her live. At 18 years old she has a very youthful enthusiasm and vigour in her live performance style, and with the way she can amp up a crowd now, at her age, I honestly can’t wait to see what she’s like in two years or so.

3. Rustie

Without a doubt the most enjoyable live set of the day due to its danceability, Rustie just killed it. Laneway was very chilled for most of the day, but having the opportunity to let loose a bit and dance to someone who knew how to drop a beat made Rustie one of the best DJ acts I’ve ever seen.

4. Andy Bull

You can’t help but watch an Andy Bull set and just ask yourself “How? How does he sing that high?”. He’s always had a very androgynous voice, but the accuracy with which he can sing notes above what is normally humanly possible is pretty crazy. He always approaches his live performances with a sense of humour too, which always adds to the experience.

Have a happy weekend all! This Saturday I’m taking a break from watching indie acts and trying something completely new. Yep, I’m seeing One Direction. I’m not even ashamed.

By Erin Rooney