The Dreadful Tides opened the show with their pub rock, raw and powerful sound. The Dreadful Tides are fronted by lead singer Jimmy Black, guitarist Justin Strudwick, drummer Leland Hallett and tonight on bass Ben ‘Benno’ Curnow borrowed from Shotgun Mistress, filling in for Wes Hopkins.
They played a 30-minute set filled with 8 great rocking tunes. The Dreadful Tides are an energetic mix of hard and classic rock with heavy, hard drum beats, crunchy riffs and awesome guitar playing. Topped off with Jimmy’s vocals with are strong and clear. “Welcome To The House of Pain” had a hauntingly beautiful quality with Jimmy and his guitar just singing his heart out. “Fire In The Hole” has a giant opening that you just can’t help but bang your head to. The Dreadful Tides were a great start to the night.
The Dreadful Tides Gallery
Next to perform on stage was Demonhead. A Melbourne based band whose music is a mix of Thrash, Traditional Metal, Stoner Rock and a touch of Death Punk. They have a heavy dark sound that is played at full throttle. Demonhead comprises of Dave on guitar and vocals, Andrew on guitar, Azz on bass and Ash on drums. Their music is played at a frantic pace with the drums played in a double kick pattern of racing speed. It makes you feel as if someone has pushed the fast forward button. The guitar and bass are pushed to the limit with hard and fast licks. The lead singer has a demonic stare as he belts out the vocals over the loud beats.
Demonhead played a 40-minute set filled with 9 tunes, which the now larger crowd had hands in the air and heads banging. “Bring on the Doom” really got the punters fired up and I did notice a group of dedicated fans up front who knew every word and note. Demonhead are not for the faint hearted but if you love Thrash metal then this is the band for you.
Demonhead Gallery
So now the room is full. It feels a little like a reunion of band mates, family, friends and fans who have all turned out to support Wicked Smile and to celebrate the “Wait for the night” Vinyl release show. “Wait for the night” was released in October 2021, but tonight is the release of the very cool green vinyl.
Wicked Smile is fronted by Danny Cecati, on guitar Stevie Janevski and Dave Graham, Tom Nugara on bass and Andrew Sharp on drums. With lights and smoke the scene is set, so tonight’s set list is the whole “Wait for the night” album in track order plus 3 extra songs. Bang straight into it with the opening notes of “Date with the Devil”. “Wait for the night” is a kick ass, old school heavy rock album.
Danny the ‘Repunzel’ of rock let his hair down and the crowd (figuratively) all climbed his custom light emblazed microphone stand to music heaven. Wicked Smile is musically tight and their original songs are well crafted. You can hear their enjoyment and passion for the music they play in every tune. Add in Danny’s rock melodic and at times almost operatic vocals and you have a show/vinyl that is well worth the money.
For the song “Stronger” a special guest appears to share the stage, Cassidy Paris, Steve’s daughter. Danny and Cassidy’s vocal are a great blend. It is like watching the teacher and the student. You can see the pride is Steve’s eyes when she performs. The rock genes are strong here. My favourite track of the night is “Don’t Wait for Me”. I would classify it as an old school power ballad with big notes and a slower beat.
Wicked Smile have a sound reminiscent of Iron Maiden, Dio and Judas Priest. After they played the complete album, they gave the crowd a taste of a new song “Rebel Souls” that will be included in a new album hopefully out later this year. To quote Steve “It’s not easy playing in an original band, so make sure you support the original scene.” If you love the good old heavy rock/heavy metal of the 70’s and 80’s, you will love Wicked Smiles sound. The awesome guitar playing, the beats of the drums and bass and the band harmonies will take you back to that time, but at the same time the music does not feel stale or rehashed but refreshed and given a 2020’s face lift. I recommend you have a listen to their music. You might just find yourself hooked and be taking home one of the super cool looking green vinyl’s.
Wicked Smile Gallery
Thanks to Wicked Smile for making Ozgreeny photography and myself feel like a part of your rock family and for Demonhead and The Dreadful Tides allowing us to be guests
Photo Credit: Ozgreeny Photography
