Here’s the story. On Tuesday night, I went to see the string-smith, Kishi Bashi, play to a sold out crowd of Newtown-ians at their beloved Social Club (formerly known as The Sando). While the placid crowd sat cross-legged around the stage waiting for Kishi to get started with his act, I decided then and there I had to give a shout out to the opening act of the night, SWIMWEAR for putting on a brilliantly gallant and groovy set. He danced, swayed, got sweaty and downright indecent with a crowd that had quite obviously decided they were there for a respectable night of quiet musical appreciation.
Screw the crowd, SWIMWEAR nailed it. Think, Kyle Andrews meets Future Islands and throw in a little Coachella Dad wearing a man-kini. He was up there all by himself when I walked in, dancing about in his dirty space invaders tee and jamming to a set list that he himself admitted had no idea where it was going. It’s a digital delight both in sound and sight and a bit of a shock to witness at the Sando instead of killing it on the festival.
His tunes are crafted for stages in fields where the crowd want to do nothing but party. It felt kind of wrong to watch while everyone was sitting down ready for the calming orchestral tunes of Kishi Bashi. Take that part out and insert a lot of booze and good feelings and you’re ready for SWIMWEAR. He was awesome to watch and didn’t give a shit what anyone thought.
He’s a Sydney local and plays all over the place, usually with a full band so make sure to keep your eyes and ears peeled. In the meantime, check out Knocks and Highs & Lows. Two highlights from Tuesday night.