Following the success of their latest release, So We Can Remember, Thundamentals wrapped up a string of sold-out national tour dates with a final performance at The Metro on Saturday May 24.
In a red and white dress with just a ukulele and a mic to hide behind, Vanessa Caspersz’s humble stage presence and demeanour didn’t exactly suggest that of a beat-boxer who is becoming quickly renowned and sought after for her world-class talents. Her cover of Tuka’s “Die a Happy Man” was a highlight, not just because of the context but because of the sheer dynamics of Vanessa’s soulful singing coupled with her beat-boxing, which had the crowd looking for a loop pedal that just wasn’t there. I think the crowd, around half full at this stage, were all pretty stoked that they had decided to come early.
Fozzey & VanC finished their opening tune by agreeing with the crowd, who modestly applauded, that they got off to a “rough start”. Slowly the set gained more and more energy until the end of the set, when everyone was singing along to their hit “Perfect Couple”. Their electronic backing tracks, although self-produced, detracted from the experience a little, especially considering they were on a bill with three other impressive live acts. However, the vulnerability in the lyrics, which focus on relationships, coupled with catchy choruses, provided a sense of honesty and originality to the performance that has me intrigued about where they are heading.
Astronomy Class delivered a solid set as usual, which seems an easy feat with the veteran Ozi Batla heading the band. Sydney-based bassist John Maddox provided steady grooves and the band didn’t hesitate to bring guest artist after guest artist on stage. They performed a couple of new tracks which got the crowd excited for the release of their upcoming album Mekong Delta Sunrise, Astronomy Class’ first release since 2009.
Finally, Thundamentals hit the stage to a house full of screaming fans. It was pretty amazing to see these Blue Mountains boys in front of such a huge crowd after seeing them perform at Oxford Art Factory just a couple of years ago. MCs Jeswon and Tuka lapped up the audience’s enthusiasm, asking everyone to put their fists in the air and “make a peace sign with it” and giving shout-outs to both old and new fans. Their verses were so well executed that the lyrics were audible even above the noise of the crowd. The visuals and impressive lighting provided extra texture to the performance and it was excellent to see a hip-hop gig with life performances from guest vocalists, including Mataya for “Home In Your Head” and Tom Crawford for Thundamentals’ hit track “Something I Said”. The energy of both the performers and crowd coupled with the success of Thundamentals’ latest album has proven that their hard work and patience has finally paid off.
