Live Review: Stonefox, The Winter Gypsy, MANE

8 November 2016 | 3:54 pm | Lucy Regter

"A lush blanket of indie-pop wrapped up the room and the listeners inside."

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Having released her debut EP House Of Horror earlier this year, independent singer-songwriter MANE (born Paige Renee Court) has sparked a quirky interest among Adelaidians - in particular about her super-developed, enigmatic sound. Opening the night in the moody warehouse of Producers Bar, Court and her band showed no hesitation in delving into their curious brand of indie-pop. Reminiscent of soulful vocalists like Lorde and Meg Mac, Court's sultry vocals were full, rich and unwavering. Bluesy-tinged Bitter and House Of Horror showcased the band's elegant fusion of acoustic guitars, brooding keys and slinky melodies.

Bringing a full band experience, the six-person mob that is The Winter Gypsy were up next, showcasing their beautifully poignant debut EP Page 1. Coming off the back of a bunch of national gigs, the guys rolled through their set with tight execution and comfortability that comes with playing to the love of hometown fans. Each member's own musical background, which varies greatly, is found somewhere amid the warm, folky melting pot of tracks from Page 1. With a delicate indie-roots sound that brews away with patience, incorporating haunting vocals, horns and a flourish of acoustic and electric guitars, it's no surprise that Phases has been added to rotation on triple j. These guys are incredibly sweet and onto a good thing.

Kicking off their national Hands Of Gold single tour in Adelaide, Melbourne trio Stonefox took to the stage with some humble chatter and a chilled stage presence. This isn't to say, however, that the band weren't committed to the performance. From the first gentle strum of mellow guitars, a lush blanket of indie-pop wrapped up the room and the listeners inside. With floating vocals and sweet as honey, harmonies that glided over pop-heavy guitars, the band painted a gorgeous soundscape that showed impressive restraint.

Putting a mellow spin on a rock classic, The Killers' Smile Like You Mean It was stripped back and given an acoustic, melancholy shine. With fans huddled closer for more, Stonefox continued the set with crowd favourites Dreamstate and a single from their Surfaces EP, This City, beckoning a gentle sway among mesmerised fans. Despite their transporting vibes, each track remained captivating and driven by Jenna Russo's dynamic story telling. Wrapping up the night, we heard the ethereal, electronic-pop dream that is Hands Of Gold.

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