@ Hopetoun: Four piece band Dappled Cities Fly are in the process of owning a sound. Which is saying a lot considering a lot of bands never end up developing one all to themselves. Phrases such as “energetic, weird rock” and “quirky, unexpected chaos” have been bandied around. And there are definitely some influences out of Pavement and early Nirvana. From their repertoire emerge some catchy radio-worthy tunes as well as some intriguing and all in all successful attempts to experiment with different textures and noises. And all without a synth!

It’s a shame not enough bands take a risk in instrumentals. For the most part, the risk is worth taking as is the case in Sydney band Purplene. Their songs with pared back or absent voice, and there a quite a few, are the most successful. It’s pulled off by their ability to play their respective guitars, from which they bring some creative and inspired sounds while maintaining a clean, tidy execution. And a gold star to Matt Rossetti for his manipulation of drums, managing to go from subtle to lively and all the tones in between. When lead singer David Ledlin does belt it out, it’s a curious punk sound that jars interestingly with the dreamy melodies and dynamic harmonising of the guitars.