Warning Birds

From a small laid back cultural centre in the port of Fremantle, local band Warning Birds performed to a relaxed crowd at Kulcha last Saturday night. A band which beckons sunny surf pop expelled a folk kind of sound for this ‘thinking’ style gig. Consisting of violin, cello, bass, electric guitar, acoustic guitar and drums this tight group played original songs from upcoming EP ‘Battle Plans.’

Frontman Sam Carmody of the Warning Birds glowed angelically in white as he drowned his audience with smooth vocals. It would be every girls dream to be serenaded by a man with sweet majestic tones playing a Taylor acoustic guitar, Carmody fits that bill. Although the fullness of sound was contributed by all members, Carmody could easily chase an acoustic single act.

For a group who have only been around for a couple of years, their distinct voice is one of love and loss debuting dramatic but smart lyric writing. Back up vocalist and bass player Carmen Pepper exuded sultry harmonies to fit her cute outfit and long blonde wavy curls. Alex Vickery, violinist, had a mighty task with rapid parts constantly building bright powerful leads through each song. This in particular was noticeable in ‘Battle Plan’, title track of their forthcoming EP.

Cruisy ditty ‘Sally’ showcased the credibility of their song writing skills. Carmody teased the song was written about drummer Tim Bates illicit affair with his high school teacher. Who knows if this is the truth? The joke did then continue hoping Bates’ mother didn’t hear, so maybe truth it is. The song in itself let off a surfy vibe as all instrumentalists grooved along to the curiosity of the resonance. An unexpected change up for one item, was lead guitarist Bensen Thomas jumping onto keys. Dark Places was performed as a piano driven song, different to how it is recorded and released as current single. This very well may have been song of the evening with the violin acting as a lead guitar and the vocals being beautifully on the money.

Carmody is not just a song writer, but a story teller with his depiction of a childhood on the coast, darkened by abuse. Closing number ‘Ghost town’ questions the hope and desperation of uncertainty in a place of loneliness. The construction of the song makes you as a listener feel the music and the emotions which are portrayed, as the song builds in intensity, so do your emotions towards the character of the piece. A well rounded show with acoustic items, some comical comments and satisfactory music.

Warning Birds are currently headlining two shows in Victoria on the 6th and 9th December. They are worth a listen if you are out that way. Also keep in mind the debut EP ‘Battle Plans’ set to be released in February 2013.