On hearing the name Mosman Alder we were unsure what to expect from this Brisbane six-piece, who have been creating quite a stir. So when we were invited to the exclusive EP launch party upstairs at Ric's Cafe on Friday the 1st of June we were keen to investigate what all the fuss was about. The hype did not disappoint and the band delivered beyond expectation. We were treated to an amazing aural performance of haunting vocals and soaring instrumental interludes at what was the first date of the band's Burn Bright Tour. The tour, which includes dates in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney culminates in Byron Bay with an appearance at the Splendor in the Grass festival. Incidentally, Mosman Alder's new EP is also called The Burn Bright EP. Arriving late at the gig we were forced to squeeze our way through a crush of people in order to get a glimpse of the band. The room was packed wall to wall, a testament to Mosman Alders' drawing power. As the band launched into their set the crowd responded enthusiastically, moving almost unconsciously to the rhythm of the music; the beautiful melodic sound drawing them in with it's hypnotic pull. Atmospheric power-pop sounds give Mosman Alders' music a highly distinctive and recognisable quality. The smooth vocals and uplifting key signatures entwine to create beautiful melodic songs which delight the listener .The rich timbre of the singer's voice, backed by delicate lilting harmonies and the sweet purity of the instrumentals, creates a lasting and resounding impression. The song Raisin Heart, which is the single off the burn bright EP is a delicious example of Mosman Alders' signature sound. Wonderful instrumentals are complemented by the smooth, rich tones of the vocals. The film clip for Raisin Heart was recently played on Rage. One of the more interesting facets of Mosman Alder's sound is a result of their choice of instruments that they play. Being a six-piece, they are able to offer more than just the usual drums/bass/guitar/vocal arrangement of many other bands out there. In addition to these standards they also brought to the stage violin and keyboards. Many of the musicians also sing, providing delicious harmonies and multi-vocal parts. The musicianship and vocals were second to none and each member of the band had clearly achieved a high musical standard in their own right. When playing as a group it was impossible to pick a standout player. A fantastic act to listen to as well as watch, we cannot recommend the experience of seeing this band live enough. The band is signed to Dew Process and gig dates are as follows. FRI JUNE 15 ALHAMBRA LOUNGE BRISBANE Tickets available at door only. $10 FRI JUNE 22 THE GRACE DARLING MELBOURNE Tickets available at door only. $10 SAT JUNE 23 FBI SOCIAL SYDNEY Tickets available at door only. $10 JULY 27 28, 29 SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS – SOLD OUT By Emma Louise Libertine and Johnny Ryall
