Is it just me or are spontaneous, spur of the moment nights out always the best. Having spent the afternoon at an event management workshop it was a pleasant surprise to be kidnapped and taken to see one of the guest speakers wise words put into practice.

Perhaps a little hasty in our arrival, I was already two pints and three humiliating pool defeats deep (damn Queensland and the stupid two-shot rule) when the entertainment actually began at the second Originals Night to be held at the Pig & Whistle.

Insanely tight guitars and awesome harmonies were not what I expected as the fresh faced, flannelette clad, super skinny jean wearing duo stepped up to the mic. Playing a mixture of originals and covers that had truly been made their own, The Sky Pilots, though tender in years exuded a confidence on stage that hinted just how much touring they have gotten under their belt over the last year.

Less than a pint later and the headline act for the evening took the stage. There was something about a massive blue harp, yes I said harp, plugged through a zoom effects pedal that hinted that “The Flumes” were going to be a little different.

Kind of like folk’s answer to Portishead, The Flumes combined laid-back head-nodding grooves, heavily effected, sometimes angelic harp with moody vocals, the result being completely mesmerizing. Spacious arrangements really gave Stephan’s bass lines room to fill out the mix, resulting in his grooves felling lush and warm.

The only negative was that the vocals were maybe a little quiet in the mix for some songs but you get that when the sound is mixed from side stage.

All in all, I think I’ve discovered one of my favourite new bands on the Coast here with The Flumes.

Big props to Brett and Deb for continuing the live original music scene on the Coast with these nights. I highly suggest you get out there and support these nights, as you’ll probably discover a new favourite band yourself.

-Ryzer