By Deb Kloeden, Adelaide correspondent in Sydney
Review: Mansionair, ‘Easier’ single Tour
Venue: Oxford Arts Factory, Sydney, 25th November 2016
Australia’s Alt/synth/rock trio, Mansionair are really making a name for themselves across the country. Now with over 2 years experience behind them, they have a solid collection of original music to present to their growing fan base. This exciting, emerging band has played as support act for the likes of Alt J, Banks, Broods, The Temper Trap & The Rubens, with rave reviews. Now they are commanding their own headline shows, promoting their new single ‘Easier’, a preview to their upcoming debut record.
They are taking their ‘Easier’ tour to major centres around Australia, starting in hometown, Sydney, where I was lucky enough to catch them on the opening night of their tour, last night. An enthusiastic crowd filled the intimate Oxford Arts Factory and demonstrated their firm support for the local lads.
Lead singer, Jack Foggatt, is an alluring presence on stage, with his falsetto voice and melodic guitar work. Lachlan Bostock cleverly commands keys and guitar, seemingly all at the same time. His staccato key playing is emphasised by his rhythmic dancing fingers. Alex Nickolls provides the all-important beats on a combination of traditional drum and electronic equipment. Their synth sound is mature, harmonic and dreamy.
Their set was cleverly planned, starting with a largely dark, smokey stage during the ‘Intro’. Second song, ‘Pick Me Up’ from their second EP, was a crowd favourite. ‘A significant slice of eternal bliss’. As the set progressed, so did the visual display of dancing spot lighting and band energy. Fourth song, ‘Speak Easy’ is the one that first drew my attention to the band. It is also from their ‘Pick Me Up’ EP. It is definitely one that the crowd can sing along to.
They saved their new single ‘Easier’ for the end of their set. It has a slower beat with strong melodic vocals. The message is about wondering where to go to next in life. What will be the next step? It’s for those “who constantly feel like they’re fighting an uphill battle with the handbrake on,” as the band describes. The ultimate answer is that “it does get easier, seasons can change and the weight of our problems feel lighter with a new perspective.”
I definitely feel that Mansionair’s future is bound for big things. I have seen them perform live twice now and can see maturity and confidence growing in their performance. They are professional and creative, and deliver a wonderful stage spectacle. If you are not familiar with this band, I strongly suggest you check them out. Tickets for their remaining shows are selling fast.
Easier Tour
Fri 25th Nov – Sydney NSW – Oxford Arts Factory
Sat 26th Nov – Adelaide SA – Fat Controller
Wed 30th Nov – Richmond VIC – The Corner Hotel
Fri 9th Dec – Brisbane – Woolly Mammoth
Tues 27th Dec – Woodford Folk Festival
Band Members
Jack Froggatt – vocals/guitar
Lachlan Bostock – keys/guitar
Alex Nicholls – drums
PHOTO GALLERY
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From Darkroom to Lightroom in 4 decades.
Deb is aPhotographer, Music Lover, Ex teacher, and traveller.
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