V Festival Perth: Razorlight & Snow Patrol
- Apr 11, 2009
Across the way on the undeservedly named "Other Stage", Razorlight are beginning their 45 minute slot. It is an unbelievable clash but these guys just aren't as big over here as in the UK. In fact the majority of this small arena is made up of British and Irish expats and backpackers dancing away. Nevertheless, it's a fantastic set from the London based band. Bursting straight into In The Morning, Johnny Borrell smoothly rocks around the stage. He is sporting some rather tight skinny jeans which, in this heat, must be quite uncomfortable - yet the eccentric front man doesn't seem to bother, declaring on his T-shirt SAVE THE WORLD. The band play further big tracks such as America and Before I Fall to Pieces with Borrell strutting around throughout the entire set like an extra from Grease. Sexy. They may be playing the "Other Stage" but they are V Fest winners in my heart.
Snow Patrol have a huge personalised Snow Patrol Perth backdrop which lights up creating a moment of madness and screams from the crowd who run forward in the main arena. The Snow Patrol fan base here tonight is a somewhat divided one. Some rush to the front for jumping and dancing in the more upbeat moments. The rest sit and lye on the grass and watch the big screens from a distance as the British 5 piece make musically atmospheric twists and turns through a rollercoaster set of old and new tracks.
Experiencing both the relaxed and the euphoric ways, I can officially declare that Snow Patrol have got it all. Projecting the video for Open Your Eyes onto a huge screen on stage and pumping the volume, Snow Patrol give their all to impress.
Starting the intro and first half of Run with a simplistic low volume sends the arena into a quiet and mellow scene as everyone tones down to hear lead vocalist Gary Lightbody who is almost down to a whisper. Mid-song the stage bursts into life - as does the volume - for a shout-along few choruses before Snow Patrol burst straight into their next tune, the fast paced Take Back The City. It's their latest single and biggest hit to date here in Australia.
Atmospheric, musically and visually beautiful and appreciated by all, the band leave the stage with smiles all round knowing that they have worked their magic tonight.
