Live Review: DJ Krush, AOI, Walrii

The rather intimate room of Coniston Lane is laden with a thick ambience as a lush projection of abstract visuals slowly oscillates above the stage, creating a suitable setting for the night. Walrii, of Brisbane-based collective Dank Morass, forges an auditory experience that befits the evening, delivering a wonderfully refined assortment of beats and melodies – the likes of which make his recently released debut, Weaver EP, such a listening pleasure.   

A visit from Melbourne's AOI is always a joy. Tonight he performs as a prelude to the Japanese master, and his chaotic musings are certainly suited to the task. His set seems unfortunately short, and as a sense of hurriedness pervades the end of his slot, one can't help but hope for a lengthier return in the near future. 

No stranger to these realms, DJ Krush has made quite a few visits in recent years. Beginning with an Up Late set at GoMA in 2010, a flood of shows over the intervening years put an end to the drought that had taken place since his lauded set at The Family back in 2005. But no matter whether it was GoMA's tactless hosting or something else entirely less regretful, each time there has been the sense of a moderate shower rather than complete downpour. It thus comes as great delight that the musical mystic summons a tremendous storm tonight. He wastes no time in getting down to business, and rightfully so. It's been near on a decade since Krush's last opus, Jaku, and thus he seems quite eager to spread his wings in the process of airing an enthralling assortment of new material – a great deal of which is presumably work-in-progress for a long-anticipated new album. The hypnotic grooves and characteristic magic are plentiful as he channels the best of electronic and hip hop music into seamless new offerings. For those after something a bit more familiar, the recent Monthly Single Series gem Black Rain and the mandatory cut of DJ Shadow's Organ Donor are presented as treats. And as if that wasn't enough already, then the final stage offerings of We Will Rock You and Billie Jean are spoils of the most fun variety.

It's been a long wait, but Krush finally delivers another set that is worthy of his legend. Now, back to the album wait.