Live Review: Foxtrot, Maricopa Wells, Limits

First on stage at Old Bar tonight is Limits. Watching Limits in the dark band space of the front bar calls to mind drunken misadventures at the Arthouse many moons ago, and the music is also reminiscent of that time. Vocalist/guitarist Jess Shulman really is in her own element onstage and earns comparisons to the punk angst of Kris Roe (The Ataris) as well as Jenny Lewis's voice. Only three gigs into their career, this band's dynamic teamed with their ability to keep up with Shulman's tremendous pace is impressive.

The Maricopa Wells lads know how to belt out a tune, and tonight they back up their music with witty onstage banter (and dad jokes). They borrow Adam Collins (Foxtrot) for drum duty tonight and you wouldn't know that it's only his second run-through. The band play a tight set that makes us grin and get the venue pumped for the warmly welcomed melodic punk styling of Foxtrot.

Tonight's headliners have a great stage presence, with the fever-paced Collins on drums and Josh Newman leading the charge. They're not what you would typically expect from a punk band, with their bass man Nick Williams walking all over the place, using the full range of his five-string axe.

Technically and emotionally, Foxtrot warm hearts and remind us why places such as the Old Bar are so important to the Melbourne music scene. Not only do venues like this supply a place for bands such as Limits to play their first gig, but also a warm place for like-minded people to hang out. Melbourne may be known for its café culture by day, but it certainly transforms into a music capital by night.

Hopefully punters will show their support to the Old Bar and other live music venues this winter, especially when amazing, energetic line-ups such as tonight's are billed.