Live Review: Pond, Body Type, Reef Prince

Opener Reef Prince offered an endearing 'new wave hip hop' set using conventions common to artists such as Drake or Travis Scott.

A lot of the colloquialisms came across as appropriated; with as many codeine references and uses of the word "yo" as one can handle from an Australian rapper. The highlight was the beats; a few of the tracks were on the knife's edge, but Reef Prince could constructively benefit from more focus, effort and purpose.

Sydney's Body Type are instantly enthralling. Fully taking advantage of a less-is-more approach to composition, the four-piece are highly accomplished songwriters. Both guitarists and the bassist share vocal duties, performing slow burning alt-rock with hints of grunge and punk throughout. Each member has a unique vocal style and personality. The result is smart, emotive, engaging music with a touch of light-hearted fun. It would be no surprise to see Body Type dominating the Aussie festival circuit in no time.

Pond are always growing as musicians. From opener 30000 Megatons it's evident Pond are constantly improving: upgraded equipment, a mesmerising visual backdrop and increasingly experimental soundscapes in latest album The Weather. Pond evolved from an eclectic group of jammers to a spellbinding and powerful sensory experience. Proceeding with Sweep Me Off My Feet and the groovin' Elvis' Flaming Star, Pond have succeeded in blending individual elements in a rich explosion of colour and positivity, embodied by keys aficionado Jamie Terry. With live cuts of Waiting Around For Grace, Colder Than Ice and Japan only bonus track Fire In The Water, it's clear that the addition of new drummer James Ireland allows Jay Watson to expand his role playing bass, additional keys and now singing alongside Nick Allbrook. Watson's gentle falsettos contrast the unrequited, albeit genial intensity of Allbrook. (The perfect for slow dancing) Paint Me Silver and the epic flute solo in All I Want For Xmas (Is a Tascam 388) were highlights of the show, while classic cuts Don't Look At The Sun Or You'll Go Blind and Giant Tortoise had the greatest audience reaction. Of course, Shiny Joe Ryan can't go without mention, with some epic use of a slide, and the most organised pedalboard in Australian psych rock. The show ended on a high with Man It Feels Like Space Again as the encore.