The Panics (October 19th, Northcote Social Club)

I should probably be making Mark write this review, since he knows the Panics' repertoire more extensively than I do. However, since many of the songs on the new album sound similar it probably doesn't matter because both of us have trouble telling them apart! Last night I was convinced I heard the same song played three times, possibly due to similar-sounding introductions.

All this makes it sound as though I didn't enjoy the gig, and I did, despite the couple pashing in full view of the entire room right next to the stage, when the lights were still on, and despite the lack of air conditioning at the NSC (it was ten degrees outside and about thirty inside). The band are great performers- they played a reasonably tight set featuring mostly their upbeat and rockier tracks including My Best Mistake, Minor A, The General Calling and their new single Don't Fight It. The lead singer also interacted well with the crowd, who lacked attentiveness at times (see the above comment) and didn't call with particular enthusiasm for an encore. The drummer and rhythm guitarist were in my line of sight and their performance was spirited.

So I'm glad I went. They're talented and they can entertain a crowd. But after an hour standing in a hot room when I was already tired, my feet were feeling a bit sore. I was glad the encore was limited to two songs.