Lights, Wedding Proposals and Violins

An interesting comment was made by a mate when I mentioned I went to the Something For Kate gig last Friday at the Forum: "It's not like they have music that rocks out" - Cues a gentle strumming of an imaginary guitar. It may be a pre-conceived idea of how their music is, which is a shame. To an extent they're pretty low key, with a bunch of albums and a solid fan base they've been able to become one of best Aussie bands going around.

I haven't frequented too many bands this year, but this one rates as my favourite for the year so far. A lot of this has to do with the venue and the atmosphere. We weren't the hardcore fans at the front, probably just closer than halfway down, but the Forum has excellent sound, an appreciative rockin' crowd and that all adds to the experience. The set comprised of a mix of old favourites with a significant cut from the current album. Taking a step back it is quite astonishing how many hits they've had over the years and they never tend to get old.

The setting had a slightly surprising wall of coloured lights behind the band which flickered throughout; A good addition to the atmosphere. The favourite for the night would have to be Deja Vu. It was fantastic hearing this one, with the excellent transition from the accompanying guitarist (sorry I don't know his name - not Paul or Stephanie...) switching to violin mid-song and sleamlessly hitting the last third of the song; giving me tingles down the spine. Clint never seems to leave anything out there when he performs, and this night was no exception. The amount of energy that guy pumps into his drums is amazing.

While I'd seen them earlier in the year, it was before they'd released they latest album, so it was great to hear new songs I'd been listening to, performed live and appreciating them. California, Cigarettes and Suitcases, Oh Kamikze, Transparanoia, A Fools History Pt. 1 and Statues are the ones I can remember from the gig with the highlight from the latest being Statues for me.

The earlier show this year had Paul's birthday cake. This night had a guy propose to his shocked girlfriend on stage, and the band playing a song in response to an email where a woman promised to marry their partner if it was played on the night. (I think she's commented on the SFK myspace page that she's completed her end of the deal.)

In the end it was great set, some fantastic 'sing-a-longs', and an excellent, loved Aussie band performing to an appreciative crowd. The band does everything it can to get its music out there; 7 odd cds and 1 dvd to pick up. All of which is great for fans always wanting more. Can't wait to see them again...