AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS
@ PIER BANDROOM, FRANKSTON (AU)
NOVEMBER 25, 2023
The Pier Bandroom, Frankston, came alive Saturday night. Many people are experiencing their first punk rock concert, with their parents tagging along. I overhear the girls behind me wondering if their learner’s permit will pass as a suitable ID. There are fans of old and new-school punk. This is a neat venue with a tiered general admission area. I make my way onto the tier; I wouldn’t be surprised if the crowd opens up tonight against the fire-red stage lighting, a suitable backdrop. The sickly-sweet odour of vape fills the air.
Virgin Mary Disco can rock the house—Spencer Morris (vocals) starts their show with a respectful acknowledgment to country, honouring the land’s traditional owners. I love this for us, the care for the history and culture of this place. Morris sips on a pot of VB, Victoria Bitter, and to the locals, they either love or hate it. “For Free” is a funky tune with an easy listening melody that makes you want to dance; you can’t help but bop along and sway to its spicy groove, and the gents do just that! The crowd is already energised… Virgin Mary Disco does well with the crowd who have punk pulsating in their veins. What catches me off guard is the drummer, Jackson Spessot; I liken him to Animal from the Muppets; he is phenomenal, an absolute gem. Spencer thanks the crowd and, in particular, his friend Emily, who turns out to be standing right next to me, responding by yelling “spit on me”. It’s going to be a big night.
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Dumb Punts are next and share a unique banter amongst themselves and the crowd. Ciarn Gallagher (drums, vocals) confesses they are from Bonny Hills and can’t complain about Frankston. The banter is typical of those from the Great Southern Land. “Chiller” was a stand-out track for me; it’s a sad love song. The nasally, distinct Aussie accent is spot on – fast and snappy. Mixing it up, Brett Lockhart, Ciarn Gallagher, and James Gallagher change positions, which brings new energy to the set. This band is quality, and I am happy to see an equitable spread of male and female punters appreciating the music and another vital female member. Their songs are catchy, energetic and full of attitude. You’re missing out big time if you haven’t seen them live yet. Trust me, you won’t regret it. Dumb Punts rock!
The temperature is thick and heavy, and the crowd intensity builds exponentially, as does their intoxication, belting “The Voice” by John Farnham. I am curious if the selection of this song is intentionally provocative or just a coincidence, noting Declan Martens’ (guitarist) comments to Music Feed in response to the band never playing again, “Never again until we’re at the John Farnham point.” Good on them, I say.
Amy Taylor is dressed as the Frankston Mermaid, complete with a clamshell bra and bleached Farrah Fawcett locks. Gus Romer (bass) is the show’s protagonist tonight; he is rocking out and pumping up the crowd; this is the punk spirit they came for pure energy and rebellion. The fans go wild with crowd surfing, moshing, and ripped shirts, while Amyl and the Sniffers watch with admiration, and it’s great to see that this kind of freedom is still possible. Of course, they play all the favourites, “Angles” and “Hertz”. “Security” is a banger – Taylor gives credit where credit is due to the security guard on duty. The song that stood out to me was “Knifey.” Taylor’s attitude shifted from that of an energetic entertainer to that of a woman scorned, with a pretty intense message captured in the lyrics; in saying that, a lot of their music captures essential messaging. Amyl and the Sniffers are must-see if you get the opportunity, and if you don’t have the opportunity… get it.
(Photography by Victoria Love-Rainbow)
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SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS – CARTOON DARKNESS
