9th of August, 2002 Key Largo nightclub, Terrigal - By Lauren Foreman
Terrigal's a sleepy town on New South Wales' Central Coast. It's the kind of place more at home to boutique fashion stores and cafes overlooking the beach than live music. The Key Largo Nightclub doesn't open its doors until 10pm, just as the local bowling club is closing theirs. The line of twentysomethings already at the door at this time, swapping stories of their own Jason and Troy connections, was indicative of the town's enthusiasm for Field Day.
Wicker were the first band to take the stage. The lead singer looked like he could be at home touring with Nickelback, his long hair and beard contrasting with the gorgeous female bass player who shared vocal duties. The music was melodic but dark. There were elements of country and pop, but generally it was angsty alternative rock, that while enjoyable, struggled to leave a lasting impression.
Next up were The Monsters. Two guys, two girls, and a lot of energy and stage presence. The female lead vocalist had the sort of gutsy verve that makes a performance really something special. So many bands have produced angsty girl pop-rock of late, but her sincere and captivating delivery was enough to elevate their performance beyond the everyday. Their cover of "Stray Cat Strut" was especially noteworthy.
It was after midnight though, and the crowd were becoming restless for the local heroes. Soon enough though we were treated to the opening strains of crowd pleaser "Spin". Field Day were rocking the Central Coast again. Or at least as much as they could with Jason perched on a chair, crutches by his side. Between songs he joked that he hadn't really sprained his ankle; that he was merely after attention. The set was nevertheless energetic, punctuated early by upbeat tracks and old favourites, "Seven Days", "Predictions" and "Little While." Yet the dance floor was bare for the most part, despite the band's prompting for fans to come a little closer. Only your reviewer complied, and a woman in purple who kept everyone quietly amused with her dancing that bordered on performance art. Her leaping and twirling did its best to rival Field Day for entertainment value.
A highlight for long time Field Day fans was the inclusion of a new track called "Stars", an irresistably hooky tune destined to become a real favourite.
As the night wore on, and Field Day played the remainder of songs from the "Hands to the Sun" EP, the crowd on the dancefloor swelled. By the closer, "New Friend", it was difficult to move. It's uncertain whether the schooners of beer had begun to take affect, or whether the music of Field Day was in the end too infectious for the people of Terrigal. What is certain is that the crowd beathing heavily from exertion as Field Day left the stage, were ultimately satisfied.
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