Review By KATIE ROLSTON

A half full sleepy Saturday night Yayas was woken by Perth four-piece rock band TIRED LION around 10 o’clock. They produced sound beyond what was expected from four young musicians at first glance. It was a very chilled out vibe all night and Yayas is always a fab venue for this intimate type of gig.

There were great breaks in the music for instrumentals that really helped show individual elements. Female vocals were strong and never soft and really helped pave most of the melody with not all songs using rhythmic guitar. The sound was not all balanced and this made the lead guitar louder than the rest – something that should not be complained about in a rock band, after all this is what historically makes rock music more pared-back and real.

Lead guitar had one minor stumble in picking at the beginning of a song, who knows if it was the result of being inebriated or nerves. But letting go of the mishap by yelling “Fuck!” seemed to let off steam and there was no problem there-on. Drumming was insanely good and stood out the most mixing timing with skill. Just when you want to hit your air snare you’re tricked and have to hold out an extra half beat. This guy is one of the best Perth drummers seen in a while, especially for his age. Tired Lion really kept you guessing with percussion.

Songs were a good mix of indie rock licks and darker angsty sounds and lyrics which always helps show versatility. The band seemed to be into it just as much as the few dancing punters, which helps create a good vibe for those dark corner hidden head-movers just content in tapping their feet with pints in hand. Beware the floor space of Tired Lion’s bass player and make sure there’s enough room for his power stance to move back and forth, this guy has some serious nostalgia for metal but his base was well groovy once you got over the semi-distracting visual.

As performers, young Tired Lion have a way to go but time is on their side and confidence tastes better with age.