Alternative rockers Wolf & Cub graced the Northcote Social Club for the ongoing launch of their third album Heavy Weight. Having released Science And Sorcery back in 2009, fans eagerly filled the venue for an assured and dynamic performance of relentless hooks and driving bass.
Up first though were local psychedelics Iowa. Showcasing an exuberant set of layered guitar and frenetic rhythmic compositions, the band delivered an engaging and collected display underlined by Dylan Stewart’s fine vocals in “Complete Control” and “A.M.”. With impressive interplay between the prominent Jordan Barczak on bass and Matt Rooney on drums, Iowa set the scene for a thoroughly enjoyable evening.
Sydney quartet Zeahorse were up next, with an energetic composition of deep distortion and deliberate reverb. With forceful song structures pressed by the insistent vocals of Morgan Anthony and ostinato of Julien Crendal, the set progressed to an almost overwhelming intensity. Amid the baritone strings of Max Foskett and the lucid bass riffs of Ben Howell, “Career” and “Baggage” were the main highlights, as the four-piece weaved through an imposing offering of contemporary rock.
After several tumultuous years, including numerous departures and the addition of Wade Keighran and Brock Fitzgerald from The Scare, the reappearance of Wolf & Cub was a timely reminder of the progressive talents and engaging atmosphere of the band.
Hailing from Port Augusta in Adelaide, the group uphold a collective poise that was evidenced from the outset with opening track “Can’t Remember The Last Time” and follow-up single “Salao” lively and composed tunes encased by penetrating sonic soundscapes.
Revealing a renewed sense of confidence and collective buoyancy, the band advanced through an energetic performance that drew from the band’s entire catalogue, with fan favourite “Restless Sons” garnering particular acclaim for its irresistible instrumentation.
With frontman Joel Byrne in devastating form, the band surged into the elaborate melodies of “John Alone” and the well-received “Shut Me Out”, while momentum was further maintained during their debut, classic single “This Mess”.
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As the set further progressed, founding member Joel Carey again confirmed his reputation as a crisp and dominant drummer, surging through multifaceted drum patterns with relative ease, while recent additions Keighran on bass and multi-instrumentalist Fitzgerald together formed an absorbing partnership throughout the performance.
Despite numerous technical issues with fall back and reverb, the set steadily developed into an even more engrossing display, with “See The Light” and “What More Could I Say” displaying brilliant compositions of inventive groove that rocked the crowd.
With an atmosphere secured by the vigorous harmonies of “I Need More” and “Got A Feeling”, the set was then rounded by luminous encore “Vessels”, in what proved to be the most polished and refined track of the night.
Departing to a rapturous and well-deserved reception, the band delivered an assured and dynamic performance, and one that reaffirmed the comprehensive talents of the group.
