Words and pix by Rashid Alkamraihki
I love checking out new venues, even more so when it’s one that’s hosting the return of live original music to the Brisbane CBD. I arrive at Alice Bar on Elizabeth Street pretty much at doors, but there’s one big problem. I can’t find the doors. After double checking that I’m at the right address I send a quick message to Krispy to let him know I’m experiencing difficulty and he responds, confirming that I am in the right spot. Is this some platform 9 and 3/4 shit? Thankfully there is a brief lull in street noise and I hear the rumbling of distorted bass coming up an alleyway. Venturing down it I see a subterranean crimson glow that gives me confidence that I’m closing in.
Found it!
The bar itself has a cool setup with a well stocked bar and old CRT’s playing 80s and 90s wrestling videos. The booths and tables all have candle light, but otherwise the only other sources of light were the red hanging lights sparsely spread around the venue. It’s very cool for setting the mood, but it would also be hell to photograph. Good thing I’m up for the challenge.
First band up are Switch-Fate. They have a sound that blends thrash and nu-metal, with a powerhouse vocalist that can both hold a note and crank up the aggression. The whole band is tight in their execution and the small but growing crowd shows their appreciation. They blast through their set and are called on to perform an encore. It is always nice when the people want more.
They are followed by Interism who bring with them a change of pace. They offer a much more chilled feel and I get a Weezer vibe from them. There’s a bit of psyche-rock influence in there too with their skilful application of effects that in particular makes the notes from the guitar float all through the venue. It adds dimensionality to their sound that makes the three-piece sound huge.
It’s hard for me to be unbiased towards Mezmik as I have been friends with founding member Chris for well over two decades. That said, I’ll do my best to remain objective as I tell you how awesome they are. Low tuned chugs meld with programmed synths that connect to pummelling beats like sinew to bone. Jolene’s symphonic vocals cut through the muscular mix like a surgical blade before being joined by Chris’s growls in a twin vocal attack reminiscent of Lacuna Coil. Together they create a sound that both holds you in its warm embrace and rips you apart.
Closing the event are Awaken the Hate, fronted by event organiser, sound guy, and all-around legend, Benno. A staunch supporter of the local music community, he expounds on the virtues of live music returning to the CBD and that the only way for it to continue is for people to support the venues that support the bands. It also helps when the bands kick arse, and that’s just what Awaken the Hate are here to do.
They rip into slamming thrash-infused riffs as Benno belts it out over the emic. This is my first time seeing him perform and he is no slouch. All those years behind the desk he must have been taking notes or holding out on us. Possibly both. Either way, they play a killer show that caps off an amazing Sunday Scaries at Alice Bar that should get the punters excited to return for next month’s instalment. I know I’ll be there.
Editor’s note: This was the first of what is planned as an original live music event on the last Sunday of every month. Keep an eye on socials for more information.
