The Commas (June 30th, Northcote Social Club)

This was the first band I'd seen not knowing any of their songs, and my chaperone was recommending them on the basis of one track called Honey. But our trust was well placed, because it was a great show. After just a song and a half I was already tempted to buy their album. We walked in to see the support act Sime Nugent who was belting out a set of songs in his very capable, strong voice accompanied by himself only on guitar and occasionally harmonica. Then in between the main act and the support, we were treated to half an hour of great soul tracks which got much of the crowd dancing.

And finally the Commas came out. It seemed like a bit of a family and friends crowd- lots of cheering, people yelling with familiarity at some of the songs. The songs themselves were great. The lead singer sounds a lot like Jeff Buckley but without trying too hard. I don't know the songs by name yet... I only remember Honey and its smooth verses set alongside an intense chorus. A definite highlight, along with the songs featuring the accompanying trombonist and trumpet player. It wasn't an overly long set but on the whole it was highly enjoyable. A very skilled group of musicians who know how to entertain a crowd.

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