Shock Horror! @ China Horse 2 - 23/05/08 The Bakery Artrage Complex
After busting through the doors just in time for the noise to begin, I managed to secure myself a decent spot in the crowd to experience my first encounter with Perth Indy up-and-comers Shock Horror!. As the very fashionably attired foursome took the stage, a beautiful soundscape emanated from keys player Andy’s micro korg and they were off to take the crowd on what will later be described as a journey of instrumental disco beat splendor. Unsure of whether to stand and watch the four perform their set or close my eyes and bust some serious dance moves, I ended up being completely drawn in by the chemistry these kids had on stage and just stood with a stupid cheesy grin on my face. As they played the opening chords of their second tune, ‘conflict, impact’ the unfortunate event of guitar string breakage occurred for guitarist, Natasha. Although a devastating situation for any guitarist playing at a show where none of the other bands’ songs require a guitar, Natasha managed to crank the rest of the tunes in their set on a five string. Adding to the overall experience were triggered visual effects projected behind them to compliment their magnificent display of infectious disco beats and bass lines. After about half an hour of ear-to-ear smiles from myself and the rest of the crowd, Shock Horror! rounded off their set the carefully constructed ‘vessels’. Starting soft, the layers slowly build and become more complex before the drums drive the tune into a deep, almost tear jerking climax. I suggest if you’re keen to see a fresh band that’ll put a grin on your face, you should check these guys out in the near future. I wouldn’t be surprised if, after a bit more experience, these guys don’t push through to bigger and better things beyond our fair city.
Jason Robb.
