In the heart of The Basin at the foot of the Dandenong’s stands The Oak Tree Tavern. Reminiscent of a rustic English pub with exposed beams and quaint memorabilia. This is tonight’s venue for the classic Rock-a-Billy band The Detonators. The Detonators are a Melbourne based 4-piece band headed by lead singer and harmonica player “Rock bottom” James Maloney, on guitar Paulie “The Kid” Bignell, on double bass “Doghouse” Dave Philpots and drums Eddie “Chops” Fury.
The Detonators formed in 1997 and it is evident that they are a hard-working pub gigging band. Their original songs are a combination of Blues, Rock-a-Billy and Rock’n’roll, which all members equally contribute to. The Detonators played 3 sets starting at 8pm and ending at 11pm for a total of 21 rocking tunes and had the punters yelling for more. The music and beats were as important as the words, as soon as the first note was played their dedicated followers were up and rocking and jive dancing. Every space available was turned into a dance floor.
At times I felt I could have been transported to a sock hop on “Happy Days” with an older version of teenagers. The mainly older crowd sure knew how to move. The music was a feast for the ears and the dancing crowd were a feast for the eyes. Doghouse Dave’s double bass is a work of art complete with pin stripes and his slap bass playing is top notch, add in Paulie’s brilliant guitar skills which are full of fast catchy licks, with Eddie on drums keeping everything on beat.
Then of course James’ vocals. James uses a double microphone technique which has that traditional Rock-a-Billy/Blues sound, but at times gives his vocals a fair ground announcer vibe. It is a very cool effect. Not to mention his harp holster worn around his waist, giving his access to the right harp for each song. All four together create a sound that just makes you want to move. While watching them perform I kept thinking if James Dean was allowed to age, he would have made a perfect Detonator with the uniform of the band and the crowd of rolled up jeans, bowling and checked shirts. And don’t forget the perfect pompadour or quiff hair styles.
The Detonators have a variety of items to purchase at their gigs, but I must say it is the first time I have seen a book “Faded out glory boys” The story of 25 years together. If you love Rock-a-Billy style of music or like to dance (no partner needed as you will
find one in the crowd to take to the dance floor) I definitely recommend you go to a Detonator gig. You won’t be disappointed and if you are local to The Oak Tree Tavern this is a great night out.
Photos by Oz Greeny’s Photography
