REVIEW AND PHOTOS BY: JADE GUIDA

Frankies is the hottest, stickiest and loudest venue in Sydney, and it would be a hard task to change my mind.

There is an air about Frankies, it is like the kingpin of the underground music scene. If you have ever loved or wanted to catch a glimpse into the sweaty world of underground rock, you have probably done it at Frankies Pizza By the Slice. The general mood at Frankies is unwavering, this venue is a like a cult icon of music. Even in a Post-Covid world they have managed to retain the same electric atmosphere, and there is no better way to add to that then the line-up they had Saturday.

The night started with an Explosive set from Sydney’s own Power-pop Metal, Starcrazy. Front man Marcus Fraser is one of the most captivating figures gracing the scene. His buttery vocals and equally smooth moves set this band up for a brilliant performance and Saturday night was no different. I know these band members and so it feels a little weird to say it but there is an element of sex appeal in a Starcrazy set, and this latest set was no different. They perfectly exude that 70s/80s Rockstar confidence. You could not walk away early from a Starcrazy set even if you have somewhere to be.

Outside of the consistently great performances the band are talented and clever musicians. The talent and musicianship of all four members is extraordinary and addictive to witness, you want to watch them, you want to listen to them. You want to have glitter eyeliner sweat dripped on you from the stage.

The songs are quick, fun, and punchy. They had the sticky Frankies dance floor moving from the opening note. The most notable thing I realized on Saturday was how well the music from this band is written. There is a real harmony between music and lyrics. The flow of their songs, whether it be in isolation or across the set is some of the best I have ever seen. There is a distinctiveness of sound for each piece but just enough Starcrazy flare that the fit perfectly together to create a wild and energized listening experience. Overall, I can’t express enough how much I would suggest going out to see this band live. They are dynamite, they have a loyal and enthusiastic fan base who will welcome you to the dancefloor with open arms and then have you shake your sweaty body along with theirs.

The main event for the night is Avalanche.

This band grinds, they are loud Rock. My ears are still ringing. They are some of the most talented and hard-working musicians to exist in the scene and my goodness do they rock. This is classic rock. In my opinion, this is some of the most authentic Rock music to exist in Sydney now and it comes in the most unlikely package. Four fairly young musicians with a love of the classics. I think if you have never seen a photo, video or this band live you would not match them to their sound, and for me that is one of the greatest aspects about seeing them live. Seeing them for the first time would be like opening a Kinder Surprise. You know you are getting chocolate, but when you work out what is in the centre you get that small electric jolt of joy.

Time at home hasn’t set this bands performance style back in the slightest. They were loud, they were fun and they were ready to bring their take on Rock to Frankies. I think I have made it clear in previous reviews that I think Veronica Campbell is the most exceptional Guitarist I have met. Saturday was no different. She plays with so much ease and joy, you can feel the love and passion she has for her craft and music. Veronica will walk out into the crowd, throw herself (yes, I mean throw) on the floor, roll and lay over her bandmates in a trance like state.

She is the High Empress of Guitarist and I will never stop obsessing over watching her live. The 20-year-old drummer Ryan is probably the dark horse. He is full of energy all the time. He is essentially the energizer bunny, but my god is he exceptional. I am usually too busy teasing Ryan to appreciate how skilled he is as a drummer. On Saturday I can honestly say he was the standout for me. I think what Ryan (Drums) has in terms of ability goes beyond skill, there is that key element of brilliant musicianship when you watch and hear him play. He is a true creative musician and performer.

The cohesive nature of this band is brilliant. They wrong songs, they play gigs, and they perform phenomenally well together. They are a well-oiled machine of Rock brilliance. This music is down to earth, its honest and raw and fans freaking love it. I watched the crowd dance, sway and head bang the entire set. Much like the music the punters at these shows are wild and ready to rock. While I was shoving an entire slice of Pizza in my mouth after the set, someone come up to tell me they had been to 7 Avalanche shows. The music has that nostaligic, iconic vibrance that just inspires loyalty. Avalanche are gritty, down to earth and quintessential listening for avid Rock lovers. Get yourself to their next gig, have a listen to their music and enjoy.