The idea and concept of the ‘secret gig’ is a fascinating aspect of live music. There has been an eternally underground and ‘cool’ factor of these types of concerts; they type of factor that concert goers will tell others about for many years to come.
In the late 80s, there were some legendary secret gigs by the likes of Mick Jagger from The Rolling Stones when he toured our country solo, and members of Pink Floyd playing at The Corner Hotel. This scribe, showing his age, remembers seeing Prince play an electrifying three hour secret show at the old Palace in St Kilda in the Nineties.
Tonight, footwear company Converse put on a secret gig at a warehouse in Fitzroy. It turned out to be an incredibly enjoyable night. On offer at this gig were both local acts, namely Scotdrakula, and Millions.
The hi-tops that Converse are most famous for have, like Ray-Bans sunglasses and Levi’s jeans, become items of clothing that have truly stood the test of time. They have truly retained an eternal sense of ‘cool’ to them, weathering many fashion changes and trends. At the same time, they have also held that alternative vibe to them, which fit perfectly with the attitude and approach of tonight’s gig.
The crowd that had managed to get invited to the warehouse were an eclectic and intriguing cross-section of those that love their music in this city. It proved to be a highly friendly atmosphere and vibe, with complete strangers striking up conversations and comparing their Converse footwear, which many in attendance had chosen to wear to this shindig.
Three-piece Scotdrakula were the first band to perform, providing a gleefully infectious beautiful noise, which struck a nice chord with the crowd. The band put forward a sense of enthusiasm and joy that is one of the most positive aspects of being young. This really fired up the crowd, who were all smiles and interpretive dance moves as the three piece did their thing. They really were a great choice for the type of gig this was.
Millions, a local quintet were almost like a pop take on the sound and style that The Velvet Underground practically invented back in the late 60s. While having that same interest and style of stretching and bending sound as we know it, absent was the jaded and cynical attitude. This was a band truly out to have fun and really connected with their audience this evening.
There was something refreshingly old yet new about tonight. Between bands, the DJ played a wild and encompassing mix of songs from over the past five decades. Apart from a few isolated moments where some of the assembled let the alcohol on offer get the better of them, there was a really positive feel and vibe in the chosen venue.
Unfortunately, due to local noise restrictions, this secret gig wrapped up about eleven o’clock that night. This is where the night could have gone quite negative, but thankfully managed to stay on the right side of that line. Overall, though, this was a very enjoyable night, and a nice alternative to your usual gig.
