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Damian Robinson enjoys indie pop aplenty as Central Park welcomes smiles and sing-alongs
Image: Circa Waves by Adam Kennedy
It’s a strong combination of opening bands in the tight and compact Central Park venue which sets us up for hotly tipped The Mysterines who come and play, well, like a hotly tipped act full of bravado should do. A fine set by indie pop outfit Kawala follows before The Magic Gang take things up a level with Style Council influences (opener Think may well be the track of the day) and a great blend of funky indie pop including the bass-heavy Take Back The Track. Well supported, and loudly appreciated, they deliver a fine tea-time performance; a momentum that’s continued with Vistas and their combination of gentle guitar lines and math rock. Poppy and concise, Dayglow and Stranger stand out in a set that is bullish and precise.
Chief support act The Academic arrive wrapped up in double denim, rock star shades and the most insane dance moves of the day. Blitzing through a pop rock sound in the form of early U2 meets Blossoms, it’s Anything Could Happen that highlights a show full of self-affirming messages and funky grooves.
Headliners Circa Waves close off tonight in fine style, jangling guitars from the off. Full of confidence, and clearly trying to condense a longer set into tonight’s one hour duration, their show is energetic and somewhat relentless.
Supported by excellent weather, and a great combination of indie pop bands looking to create smiles and sing-alongs, overall it was lovely, safe, mini-festival event.
