By Freya Wilcox
As an Australian recently moved to NYC, it is astounding to watch the music scenes of both countries intersect and unfurl. Aside from bands like AC/DC and INXS, Australian music has in many ways kept to itself until recently – as the country’s strongest acts like Gotye perform to adoring audiences in New York – and slot straight into the contagious indie scene.
Another Aussie standout, Sydney's Jezabels, performed Tuesday night to a sold out crowd at Bowery Ballroom. Their powerful and somewhat gothic approach to indie-pop (jokingly described by the band as "Intensindie”) is not only unique and extremely catchy, but the gender-based lyrics of Hayley Mary are inquisitive and challenging, asking questions often ignored.
The band brought to life hit tracks such as “Mace Spray” and “Endless Summer” with phenomenal timing and presence. Mary danced around the stage with a part-sexy, part-awkward flair that showed her complete involvement in their menacing hooks and subsequently oozed cool.
The four exhibited incredible skill with their individual instruments. Sam Lockwood’s guitar shone vibrantly in the mix with unique rhythm and spark. Nik Kaloper’s flawless timing and immense speed on the drums fully engaged with Heather Shannon’s diverse and intense keyboard. Hayley Mary’s soaring vocals were immaculate, with an ability to hit high notes rarely seen in the indie-pop realm.
The only thing that could have improved their set would be to have engaged more with the audience between songs: given their level of subtext, some conversation would have served them well. Not to mention, NYC seems to love an Australian accent.
There is little doubt that The Jezabels are likely to be taken under New York’s wing as they continue to write and develop incredible music to drop the jaws of Kate Bush and Bowie fans alike.