Plini – Gig Review and Photo Gallery 10th September @ Amplifier, Perth WA
PLINI
Amplifier, Perth WA
September 10th, 2016
Support – Intervals & Absent Hearts
Guitar nerd unite! Sydney-sider Plini returned to Perth for the second time to treat fans to some of his new masterpieces from his brand new album ‘Handmade Cities’. People poured in with their beanies and coats on a cold evening in WA, as nothing was going to get in their way from seeing the stellar line-up of the evening.
Opening up the evenings proceedings were Perth’s very own Absent Hearts, led by Voyager’s Scott Kay and ex-Tesseract vocalist Dan Tompkins – who unfortunately was overseas for the gig. Absent Hearts played an instrumental set, filled with experimentation and technical hooks. Each band member was on their own journey through the set as they engrossed themselves in every note. The band played their upcoming EP in full and were highly appreciative of the size of the crowd who came early to see them play. I for one am really looking forward to an opportunity to see the band play live with Tompkins one day.
Next up were Intervals, who flew all the way from Canada for the occasion. The virtuoso guitarists were joined by Plini for the whole set and produced a series of orgasmic sounds to the Perth audience who were gracing their presence for the very first time. Intervals can be described as band who appreciate instrumental progression, layering and fine textures, but mixed with the musical attitude of a progressive/djent metalcore band. The Canadians scaffolded sections to a climax that beautifully transcended into measured and orderly chaos. With tuning turned right down with a raspy edge, the rhythm and lead guitars produced exceptional results. Punters were headbanging and dancing to each tune, embracing the moment. Vocalist Aaron Marshall engaged with the crowd and received grateful applause and a level of attention that the band certainly deserved. Like the opening act, it would be splendid to catch Intervals live with their recording vocalist from their 2014 release ‘A Voice Within’.
Coming on stage to what must have been close to a sold out venue, the almighty Plini had a big smile on his face and greeted the crowd. Returning the favour for him, Plini was joined by members of Intervals to compliment his primary sound. The mastermind guitarist blistered through the moderate to highly tuned chords he has so carefully manufactured. Watching the legend play is something special because you watch his fingers slide across the frets and wonder how his brain is working dos quickly – it was truly remarkable.
Plini delivered a humorous persona as he would so quietly and calmly chat with the crowd who laughed after he pulled off some of the most ridiculous guitar moves ever. The humble guitarist told punters that he’s been really excited to play to Perth after rehearsing at gigs around the country – so charming. Despite the experimental nature of his music, Plini had a safe structure that each song would take off with sped up chaos per se, that would take a mellow intermission, before ramping back up again. The transitions were so eloquent though and seamless of course; and once again urging the thought of how this music was written – absolute perfection. Punters were definitely pleased with the performance and judging by their response, they will be hosting the Sydney sweetheart again soon.
Review by Ricky Aarons
Plini Set List –
Heart
Handmade Cities
Inhale
Away
Electric Sunrise
Atlas
Moonflower
Cascade
Paper Moon
Selenium Forest
Capturing the night was Den Rad, his awesome gallery is below – simply click on an image to enlarge.
Bands feel free to share
Others – please do not use without permission
PLINI
INTERVALS
