The announcement that Marc Spoon a.k.a STORM had cancelled his Australian tour a few days before the event did not stop the techno enthusiasts from gathering and enjoying the sounds of local DJs and two of the toughest international artists under the one, and very high, roof of QBH. Fortunately, the promoters from Oracle Events were quick off their feet to secure another international act, saving the day they replaced STORM with the exuberant and well-appreciated Kosheen.
Although, I did not know what to expect from this event I knew I would be delighted by the sounds of local artists and the one and only acid techno king Chris Liberator.
When I arrived at QBH I was greeted by the sounds of Melbourne’s own Dee Dee, complying with his trademark sound he performed a technically tight set consisting of a selection of dirty and fat tracks. Although the dance floor had not reached its’ full capacity it was clear that those who were there did appreciate the sounds of Dee Dee’s strong and impressing set, proving that he was the perfect intro to an international guest.
By the time Commander Tom was on stage the venue was packed with punters who were pumped to hear the sounds that followed. This was my first impression of the legendary Commander Tom who has been DJing and producing for the past 17 years, surprisingly the big man behind the decks seemed to look strangely bored. Luckily, his lack of enthusiasm and energy did not rub off onto the crowd and the attitude of the punters remained positive, although there were times when the crowd seemed confused at his selection of tracks. His combination of techno and trance featured a few good tracks but he limited his creativity in mixing, lacking in stimulation throughout his set.
Next on stage was the instigator and ambassador of acid techno. Chris Liberator. This man certainly lived up to expectations for the whole two hours of his set, proving to be the prolific producer and king that he is. Delivering a delicious dose of his underground sounds derived from the dirty and deviant squat parties of the underground U.K scene, the techno-punk put other genres of dance music to shame as he delved deep into the decks. His ingenuity and passion shone throughout his set, his smile never left his face, looking as though he was enjoying himself and having as much fun as the crowd.
Jason Midro followed and ensured that the vibe was maintained at its’ almighty high, his choice of music veered to the nights theme of techno with a few hard trance tracks turning in between.
Scott Alert, the master of morning sets was to take off where Jason Midro had left. A specialist in warming down the crowd Scott Alert played brilliantly and certainly lived up to his reputation proving that he is an expert at performing a flawless and trademark set. Tracks that were played and stood out during the night were La Rock, Are Am Eye,I love Techno, Flash and Funky Old Cortina.
The venue did not reach its’ full capacity resulting in only the lower dance floor, Fractured side room and a small chill-out area on one of the side balconies being opened. This proved to be the perfect space for the amount of people that did attend the event providing plenty of room on the dance floor for those who wanted to move and have a shuffle without it being too spacious and empty. Unfortunately, lack of ticket sales meant that the Next Rave Generation room did not open. Although I did not venture into the Fractured breaks room it provided the perfect place for those who wanted to chill out and have a brake from the pounding sounds of techno that filled the main room. The people, who were there, were there for the music, the keen and enthusiastic crowd created plenty of vibe and an enduring atmosphere.
Overall, a great night that consisted of great music and great people who were not scared to have fun within the walls of one of Melbourne’s great venues.
Overall, a great night that consisted of great music and great people who were not scared to have fun within the walls of one of Melbourne’s great venues.
