Gig: Pet Shop Boys, Groove Armada, Gnarls Barkly and The Rapture @ Sydney Myer Music Bowl 3/4/07

I imagine there are a few punters in Melbourne pissed at Virgin's entre into the festival circuit. Firstly they didn't bring the whole kit and kaboodle down from up north even though they charged for the kit and two kaboodles. Secondly, they chose to fence the drinkink area into a corner of the music bowl that afforded little music. And finally, they locked most of the ticket holders far from the madding bands.

That didn't bother us because we had VIP tix, thanks to Don, and the wherewithall to outwit the gatekeepers and sneak the fest of our crew in.

Now, the music:

The Rapture was apparently good but we missed them for the most part. 'House Of Jealous Lovers' greeted us as we crested the hill and then it was all over. Pity.

Gnarles Barkly were interesting enough. Rather manufactured, as to be expected, all schoolgirls and shorts. CeCe was admirably frank about the revenue the album has brought him, which is obviously keeping him in hamburgers. I don't remember all that much about the music. Typical.

Groove Armada were enjoyable but surprisingly subdued. When they finally pulled their fingers out at the climax it was like looking into the show that could have bee. I did live the way the crowd cheered every time the boys pulled out a different instrument. I'd hate to see this crew seeing a symphony orchestra. Sheesh.

As soon as the Pet Shop Boys' dancers stepped on stage it was clear who the crowd had come for. They may wear funny clothes, they may not be able to sing, they may be heavy on the blips and have a rare fondness for spelling, but boy did they steal the show. In the absence of a Kylie concert, this was definitely the gayest thing I'd ever seen. E.N.J.O.Y.A.B.L.E.

I'd say more but the one handed typing thing is getting to me.