Night one of BIGSOUND 2023 was more than just a showcase of performances, it was a collection of human creativity in many forms. Expect the unexpected with artists pushing boundaries and creating unforgettable experiences.
Kicking off the night (5 September) was Joey Leigh Wagtail at The Sound Garden, tearing at your heartstrings with five astronomical musicians by his side, including a tambourine and cello.Highlight song was 'Lost In The Wind', with the audience captivated by the country blues coming from the stage. All eyes were locked on Joey Leigh Wagtail right up until the end of his set.
Over at The Zoo were country-rock girls Vixens Of Fall, with their beautiful harmonies and groovy moves, backed by a collection of musicians, even including the classic country banjo.
Their onstage chemistry was undeniable, including their in-sync choreography and energetic dance breaks with their band. Their song 'Sisterhood' is an insanely accurate representation of their bond with the audience and each other.
Vixens Of Fall - image © KealiJoan Studios
Over at The Brightside Outdoors under the moonlight was young and upcoming punk-rock artist Ixaras, captivating the crowd with her energetic stage presence and catchy melodies.
It's no surprise after what we witnessed that the 16-year-old artist was a finalist in the 2023 triple j Unearthed High competition. It was clear it is only going to go up from here for the young artist, who drew a huge crowd.
Inside The Brightside was Sydney nu metal band Teeth, blending hypnotic grooves with creepy quiet passages. Their energy was undeniable and had people head-banging and moshing all the way through their set, to the point where people were bouncing off the walls.
The attitude and creatively-driven anger radiating out of their lead vocalist was truly a captivating experience.
Teeth - image © KealiJoan Studios
Inside The Valley Loft was South African-born artist S.A.B. With his energetic tunes, S.A.B makes a difference in the world and has some powerful messages to depict.
Bringing up fellow BIGSOUND artist and his good friend Sachem, the two performed an energetic version of their collaboration 'Black Noise'. S.A.B ended his memorable set with his band holding up the backs of their instruments with signs stating his name, which was an artistically powerful move.
Over at Black Bear Lodge was alt-rock band The Dandys, who have plenty to like. Their high-energy and emotionally-motivated songs created a level of spirit in the room that was unmissable.
It's no surprise they've gained so much attention in the last year, with the room packed to the edges with adoring fans – both old and new. With the energy buzzing, every single person in the room walked out with a smile on their faces.
The Dandys - image © KealiJoan Studios
Over at The Prince Consort was crowd favourite, Radium Dolls. Their reputation for being one of the most entertaining live acts is no joke. From their contagious bouncing around and their even more infectious smiles, their vibrant crowd and entertaining show was one hard to beat.
Even when their lead vocalist whipped out a harmonica, adding a little bit of flair to their showcase, their thoroughly entertaining punk-rock anthems really proved why they have accumulated so many adoring fans.
It was then time to head back to The Sound Garden for the powerful voice of Melody Moko. Her personality and stage presence is one that you can't help but adore. Her music is influenced by real experiences and her observations of others' lives.
Her song 'The Outskirts' was a true highlight of her set; she mentioned it was written when she was ten years old. Melody delivered powerful stories within her music, but always with a little bit of sass and a smile. Everything about Melody is real and organic and truly captivating.
Melody Moko - image © KealiJoan Studios
Back into The Valley Loft to witness the powerful Sachem. A highlight of Sachem and his set is his poetic genius, opening songs with truly emotional poems and jumping into catchy tunes.
Everything about Sachem is undeniably real, with his crowd being one of the most involved audiences of the night, jumping around, knowing every single word to his set. Sachem's ability to turn his anger into passion and focusing on the things that matter, he is an artist that will make you think and feel.
A quick bolt back to The Sound Garden to see 2023 Toyota Star Maker Loren Ryan, who opened with a cover of a Keith Urban song that had everyone up on their feet dancing and singing along. Her smile was infectious and you couldn't help but love every part of the show.
Loren Ryan writes original songs and translates well-known Australian songs into her native tongue, which really set her aside from other artists. The buzz around Loren is truly well deserved.
Loren Ryan - image © KealiJoan Studios
Finishing off my night was English TikTok sensation Casey Lowry, who didn't let the occasional technical hinder his set, jumping in with a little bit of improvisation and jamming along with the crowd.
Casey and his lyrical compositions often delve into themes of self-discovery, love, and the human experience, which only increases his musical presence. With the most contagious giggle and a very loveable stage presence, Casey's performance was one that places him as a must-see artist.
Casey Lowry - image © KealiJoan Studios
BIGSOUND Night One was a big one; you can't help but jump in on the buzzing excitement around the Valley especially with what the next two nights are going to have in store for music lovers.
More photos from the show.
