Townsville Youth Helpin' out Haiti

Words by Nic Horton

Photos by Anna-Marie Harding

Last weekend, the Aitkenvale PCYC opened its doors for like-minded punters in aid of the Haiti disaster. With a bill of local talent almost as long as your arm, the night was bound to be an entertaining one.

With some really fresh home-grown produce as well as seasoned local favourites, the night went quite smoothly. The crowd numbers were a surprise, really, considering the extensive advertising, and I was surprised more people didn't turn out to support the cause, and check out the local talent on offer.

However, the night introduced me to electronic duo The Popli Kids, who really blew me out of the water with their synth-infused experimental electronica.

Unknowingly I was standing outside the doors catching a few breaths of fresh air when I could hear what I thought was 'interval' music, which turned out to be The Popli Kids. The young duo were something like disco tech infused with synth pop mixed with art rock with a twist of dance. What I heard of their set, I liked.

There were also a few funk-inspired performances, including 20 Ounces from Freedom, which awakened my liking for ska with a few covers, a few old-school sing-a-longs and several original pieces.

Local favourites, and almost mantel-pieced rockers Shiftlock delivered new material as well as some not-so-new, which abstracted the ska and synth-disco that had shared the same stage in the name of charity. It was in no way bad, I think it more emphasized the diversity of the local music scene, which is always refreshing. And anyway, the whole night was more about everyone coming together for a noteworthy cause; the music was just a flamboyant bonus!

The Short List brought a fresh course to the table, with the headliners tearing through an energetic set in a somewhat tame atmosphere. Frontman Daniel Chigwidden has a sharp yet pleasing voice that screamed of Yves Klein Blue undertones.

All in all, I felt the night could have been better received by the community, but the performances and organisation was rather excellent. Kudos to those who turned out and supported the Haiti disaster.