Friday 28 January, 2011 – Review by Chris Martin

The middle of summer at Amplifier Bar and Diamond Eye launches their long awaited debut album ‘Alive and Kicking’.  What perfect timing for punters to go down and get rocked by three of Perth’s hardest hitting bands.

First on stage were three Rockingham boys, aka The Corner. The heat had clearly gotten to bass player Mark Lebkeucher who had logically stripped down to wearing nothing but boxers and shoes. Vocalist and guitarist Jase Le Scelle was perfectly dressed for the occasion, sporting a Mohawk that would make Lars Fredricksen proud. The band quickly tore into a set of punk-fuelled power that sent the crowd into a rush. Songs like Babydoll and Don’t Make A Sound showcased the band’s melodic side, while upcoming video Wrong was as trippy as it was heavy. When the band finished off with Tongue it was obvious they’d made some new friends.

Next Stone Circle graced the stage. They’ve been making waves for quite a while now and it’s not hard to see why. Stone Circle boast all the required elements for success; a charismatic frontman that channels the presence of Michael Hutchence, a guitar hotshot and a lock-tight rhythm section. They kicked off with Tied to Stone and from then on there was no holding back. All the band members delivered a stellar performance, but guitarist Scott Howe was MVP of the night, igniting songs like Take Your Chances and Speed Racer with powerful riffs and fire-breathing solos. A particular highlight was the Zeppelin-esque Gero Love Song, which featured a sing-along chorus to die for. The band finished off with Living For The Sunshine to cap off the sizzling performance.

Around 10:30pm the main act was finally unleashed – Diamond Eye. The stage had been specially modified for the evening, with more lights and a smoke machine. The band’s wireless units were notably useful, allowing them complete freedom of movement on stage. Opening with Been Away Too Long, the band then proceeded to play every song off their debut album, plus a few more in a marathon performance. Greg Fawcett delivered ripping guitar on Last One Standing and Tonite, the latter featuring a great talk-box workout.

Another hit was Machine, which featured a hilarious intro from Chase Cameron. Skin opened up with something rarely seen by a Perth band, an unaccompanied guitar solo from Fawcett. The smoke machine got a workout all night, and was really pumped during Sound Of The Guns. The band closed set with Impress Me and after re-introducing themselves, the crowd knew what song what coming… obligatory show closer F.U.C.K! capped off a brilliant launch night from a band that knows how to entertain and give their fans what they deserve.