There has been a lot of talk recently about Sydney-based ‘80s-electro outfit Van She. With the release of their first LP V, the group has been receiving a steady amount of air play and street press coverage and generating quite a buzz for themselves.
Arriving at nine, I was disappointed to be informed that I had already missed the first band, Mission Control. Since when have support acts started within an hour of doors opening? Anyway, the general word was that they put on a decent enough show. Following up was The Valentinos, who have apparently changed their name to Lost Valentinos (although that wasn’t how they appeared on the bill). These guys started out with some low-key psychedelic rock, but soon some cracking drums came along with a funky bassline and punters started moving into the main room.
They put on a good show, with some recognisable tunes featuring a tight rhythm section and some impressive guitar work. The set moved around a bit, showcasing synthesisers and one member getting a great sound from bashing the side of a floor tom. They peaked right at the end with their new single, sounding as if they are heading in a heavier rock direction. It’s definitely worth keeping an eye out for these guys in the future.
With a reasonable sized crowd milling around the bar area, Van She took to the stage. Their sound was tight and well delivered, with a great amount of energy. The crowd got comfortable quickly, as people started moving, clapping and singing along. Having been around for a few years and having a successful EP has helped these guys to develop a solid fan-base for themselves here in Adelaide. Ripping out some of their old favourites as well as new singles including the catchy Changes, Van She showed us why they can be mentioned in the same breath as The Presets and Cut Copy.
The visuals projected on the screen behind the band started off with an interesting mixture of clouds, skyscapes and solar systems. Soon enough, some clips from some ‘80s favourites entered the mix. The Boy Who Could Fly was a particular feature, only solidifying Van She’s place in the ‘80s electro/new wave movement. They too seem to be making a departure from the power synths and real ‘80s sound, with some tracks from the new album featuring a steadier rock edge. Finishing off with their classic track Kelly, the appreciative crowd cheered loud enough to warrant a one track encore (with matching V jackets, no less).
Soon after the floor cleared, Van She Tech took to the stage to tweak things up a notch. There was still that old style sound, but it was expertly mixed and delivered in a tidy tech/house package that quickly got asses shaking. Personally I prefer the Van She Tech set to the live Van She set – but that may be because I am just getting over ‘80s imitation and prefer the dirty tech sound. But whatever your preference, Van She are proving themselves to be a polished live act. With so many upcoming tour dates, no doubt there will soon be many more Van She fans nation-wide.
