So, let it be known that I until this day was a Big Day Out virgin and might I say, what a ride! The day started slow and steady and ramped up for one big party at the main stages.
Once through the doors, a quick turn about the Gold Coast Parklands was in order while the crowds were still thin. Although not as hot as the 46 degree day Sydney had for their BDO, it was still remarkably hot and shade was limited to spattering’s under trees.
Up first for the day was Sneeky Picnic, an all girl five-piece from the Gold Coast. They were rad! I couldn't have imagined a better start to the day. The band are still very rough, I mean the drummer couldn't keep a tempo to save her life because she was so busy doing tricks with her sticks, but they have so much potential. It’s not every day you see a chick rapping in a young band and between Jess Koroi and the singer Erin Ross, they led the band in well written tunes.
Catching the end of Toucan, it was clear the duo, accompanied by their friends, have a real clear vision as to the sound they make. It was pop but infused with roots and electro, and was really cool to hear. Up next in the same tent was Avalanche City; why have I not looked this man up before?! Absolutely sensational! It’s the “new” folk-pop sound that I have been searching for. They had a huge assortment of instruments that makes a good folk band.
I tried to have a look into Hunting Grounds, but the Vans Tent was packed and standing out in the sun in midday heat was too much to bear. They were sounding rad though! Grinspoon. They are such a solid band. They put on a remarkable show and were everything we've come to expect from the band. They played tracks from across their catalogue, but mainly tracks from their latest record.
At this time, it was time for some chow and of all the festivals I’ve been to, BDO certainly has the widest selection. I settled in on the top of a hill under a tree with my woodfired pizza and watched We All Want To play the Red Stage. They have a cool, chill vibe and were the perfect soundtrack to accompany lunch.
My second venturing to the Main Stage was for Band of Horses. The band was spot on and played a great set, but there was no magic in what they were playing. Vampire Weekend who were up next however were just sensational! They have the entire D barrier crowd dancing around like maniacs. I was one of these maniacs. This band is sensational and live, are even better. Frontman Ezra Koenig has such unique vocals that accompany the African influenced percussion so incredibly well.
The Yeah Yeah Yeahs continued to heat up the main stage, while over at the Lilypad, Hey Geronimo performed to a crowd of movers and shakers as they caught people's attention as they walked through the thoroughfare. This band has an undeniable talent for creating a hell good pop tune that, upon listening to, you can’t help but dance and be unconditionally happy. The new songs they have added to the setlist are no different. Kudos lads.
As the night was drawing to a close, The Killers were playing the main stage, and were the definite highlight of the night. The production of the set was phenomenal, and even though I was close to 150m back from the stage, it still felt like I was in the mosh. The camera work also has to be mentioned, as without such quality, that feeling wouldn't have been created. They played all the songs that everyone wanted to hear as well as songs from across their catalog. It was balanced and it had fireworks! Yes, at the end of the set, there were fireworks timed to be set off at pivotal moments in “When You Were Young”.
As everyone shifted their eyes to the right for the Red Hot Chili Peppers there was a feeling of excitement in the air, however that feeling was gone by the middle of the first song. The sound was terrible! I’m not talking average, but borderline unlistenable. From where I was standing, I could only hear the bass drum, and pretty much no vocals at all. And where The Killers used the video stream to their advantage, with the Chili Peppers, it felt like a pre-recorded video due to the amount of filter and editing to the live feed. If you couldn't see the stage itself, which oh-so-many people couldn't, then the feed didn't help you to experience the show at all. They played their classic hits and songs off their latest record, but I know from what I heard around me that people were got really frustrated and many left saying it wasn't even worth it. I was disappointed and I’m not even a die-hard RHCP fan. I hope that Adelaide fares better.
Despite the disappointment in sound at the Peppers, it was a day to remember with many highlights, including the heavy metal band Compressorhead who played in between each act on the main stages. I return to Brisbane with my BDO cherry popped and a wicked sunburn, despite the multiple reapplications of sunscreen, to prove it. Nicely done BDO.
