Brisbane big-hitters, Ball Park Music thrilled a hometown crowd when they played their ‘Trippin’ The Light Fantastic’ show at The Tivoli on Saturday 18th October.
The local quintet channelled the sexy dancehall sounds of the ‘70s as they rocked their way through old and new favourites such as ‘Polly Screw My Head Back On’, ‘Cocaine Lion’ and ‘Sad Rude Future Dude’, mixing things up with extended solos and instrumental breaks.
Midway through their set, bassist Jennifer Boyce introduced to the stage a “very special guest”, a rather nervous, but ballsy young man who proposed to his girlfriend; luckily she said “yes” and we were all spared the awkwardness of extreme-public humiliation.
Sam Cromack, Ball Park Music, at The Tivoli 18.10.14 Image © Lachlan JohnstonRomance aside, Ball Park Music’s live performances really showcased the skill and musicianship of the individual members as well as how they operate on-stage as a cohesive unit. They shift seamlessly from upbeat, rock-party jams to mid-tempo ballads like ‘Coming Down’ without letting the energy of the show dwindle.
‘Trippin’ The Light Fantastic’ wasn’t just a cute, cultural reference either; their stage design, with twin disco balls, neon tracers, pin-lighting and shimmering backdrop, made for an amazing visual accompaniment.
The light show really was fantastic, evoking the mood of each song and more than anything, it was nice to finally attend a local show where the lighting technician did more than occasionally flick-on a strobe or change the stage wash from red to blue and back again, so kudos to the hard-working roadie.
Sam Cromack, Ball Park Music, at The Tivoli 18.10.14 Image © Lachlan JohnstonWith their winning combination of infectious-pop grooves, honed stagecraft and a strong following of local fans, it’s little wonder why Ball Park Music are one of Brisbane’s top acts.
