Reviewed on Friday March 24 (photo by Ashley Mar)
When it comes to explaining post-rock to people, it’s usually easiest to say something like, “Think adventurous alternative rock without the lyrics.” The support at the anticipated Sleepmakeswaves Sydney show were a good example. Caligula’s Horse are a solid – if not always thrilling – outfit that represent the metal side of the prog rock spectrum well. ‘Marigold’ is the best example of their skill as songwriters – and the crowd was definitely into it.
But it is hard not to be overshadowed by a band like Sleepmakeswaves, who had the crowd jumping even without any words to sing along to. They took to the stage in plain black T-shirts and, apart from some lights, left any theatrics at the door. It was clear from the start – and from their career so far – that this band is all about the music.
Following their first two outstanding albums, it was a pleasure to find that material from Sleepmakeswaves’ latest effort Made Of Breath Only is even darker and more complex. ‘Tundra’ was a highlight of the evening, showcasing their move towards a slightly harder sound.
‘It’s Dark, It’s Cold, It’s Winter’, a slower and more contemplative song, built beautifully live. Meanwhile, material from the more electronica-influenced Love Of Cartography kept the set energetic. A mosh even opened up during ‘Great Northern’ – probably the closest thing to a ‘hit’ from that record.
It’s the ability to explore the different sides and possible incarnations of their sound that has allowed Sleepmakeswaves to continue to excite over time. Alex Wilson humbly said they were surprised and grateful that they’d managed to get to their third release at all. Watching them perform with such skill and professionalism, it is clear why they’ve managed to find such a devoted and diverse fan base.
