Not blessed myself with a voice of an angel, the innate talent to construct uplifting melodies or the unique ability to capture the attention of a generation it is most definitely accurate to say i am not musically inclined. However, that is not to say I do not have an ardent appreciation of a wide variety of tunes and beats. Many hours hours have been spent collaborating my home music collection, discussing the credentials of different artists and thinking “i wish i could do that”.
It is one thing to be at home in front of the fire, sitting up late into the morning as the soothing lullabies of Josh Pyke float around you and a completely different experience to hear the music live (Yes, Josh Pyke was my first live gig). Words cannot quite do justice to the rare feeling of watching a talented musician creating unquestionable acoustic beauty, and loving every single minute of it.
In fact, some of my fondest teenage memories of ‘nights out’ have been those where the local high-school band has covered some of my favourite artists, or i’ve happened to stumble across a live mic. night at an establishment i had no idea existed. Music festivals progress to a whole other level entirely; set upon set of individuals sharing their skills and passion, dancing and singing with your mates and finding time to indulge in the odd cheeky beverage all contribute to ensure a truly memorable occasion. In fact, last year’s attendance at Groovin’ the Moo with young Mr. Orman in toe and other great pal’s was one of 2011 absolute highlights. Attending The Jezabels’ concert the night before my final year med. exam last year was queried by many of my peers, but for me it provided the perfect motivation and inspiration to study hard beforehand so i could really enjoy my night, the old reward for good behaviour trick. Listening to Adalita and Jake Stone (Bluejuice) perform their interpretations of Nick Cave classics at The Forum late last year was a brilliant way to signal the end to the academic year and the beginning of summer dedicated to my Andean odyssey. Just a few examples of the great experience which live music can provide.
Whether it be a concert, gig, jam, recital, sideshow, rockfest, festival, gala, feista, carnival or anything else remotely related to a live tune, i simply cannot get enough. So, what’s my problem ? Well, in previous years, differing restrictions varying from family, sport, academia and other commitments have restricted my ability to fully experience the live music scene. This year will be different, and, living in Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, what better place to launch my attempt at becoming a fully fledged music whore. I’m challenging myself to experience more.
Challenge #7 – Live Music
With St Kilda Music Festival lined up for this Sunday, Future Music Festival tickets secured and GTM to be purchased next tuesday, the year is starting well.
On first appearance it seemed that Mattyo would be MIA for GTM No. 2, but since his recent shenanigans in which he declared sexual affections towards the daughter of famous Spanish dignitary became public knowledge he is now facing immediate exile, hence the resultant earlier departure date to Australia resulting in an increased likelihood of him being a late inclusion.
If you have any recommendations of live acts and gigs worth checking out, both locally and internationally (i may put them on the bucket list) i would love to hear them. And if i know Matt, he will most certainly take up the challange to expand his already vast music knowledge and join me on as many as my music ventures as he can (or as finances allow).
~ Connor
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