Slowly Slowly | Pier Bandroom
On the 5th of September, I pulled up out front of the Frankston Pier Bandroom, my anticipation through the roof. It was a new venue for me but certainly catered to the immense turnout. The line-up was remarkable, with Bukowski, Teenage Joans, and of course the headliner Slowly Slowly – all bands I regularly keep on repeat. My interest was especially piqued when I was given the insane opportunity to write a review, particularly for Slowly Slowly, as I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing them once before. With the merch stands packed with eager fans, the queues for the bar beginning to form, and the crowd moving as a pack towards the stage, it became clear to me that I was in for one memorable night.
Starting the night off strong, Bukowski have been a favourite of mine even before having the pleasure of seeing them perform, with their knack for putting a hypnotic spin on poignant verses. The homegrown complaint rock ’n’ roll quartet from Melbourne consists of Vocalist and Guitarist James “Bassy” Karagiozis, Vocalist and Guitarist Benjamin Malkin-Adby, Vocalist and Bassist Jamie Rolfe, and Drummer Gerard Dowling. The band played an array of songs from their most recently released album I Don’t Wanna Live, I Don’t Wanna Die. Released in February, the album has gained a lot of traction since and showcases 11 intricate songs. Hearing tracks I resonate with, like What Do You Want Me to Be, was truly an experience. Bassy even dedicated the song to Benjamin’s wife and young baby, as it’s her favourite track by the quartet. They also played Sow, currently their most streamed song on Spotify, which sits alongside What Do You Want from Me on the same album. The band has a handful of supporting performances with Slowly Slowly left on this regional tour before continuing on for three shows with Teenage Joans for the My Heart’s Dead! tour throughout Australia.
All the way from Adelaide, Teenage Joans were next to grace the stage, truly showcasing the epitome of stage presence and their pure love for what they do. The incredibly charismatic duo consists of Vocalist and Guitarist Cahli Blakers and Vocalist and Drummer Tahlia Borg, who first burst onto the scene back in 2018 and have already shared the stage with some massive names in music. Teenage Joans have supported artists such as Foo Fighters, Amy Shark, and Sleeping with Sirens, as well as selling out countless headline shows of their own. They’ve also performed at enormous international and Australian festivals like Good Things, Laneway, and SXSW Austin, flaunting their ever-growing talent. We were treated to an incredible setlist, with hits like their 2024 single 1800-Painless, during which they brought Bassy from Bukowski back out to sing the parts originally done by Between You & Me. Their fusion of indie and punk rock with melodic lyrics creates a perfect blend for enchanting compositions. Closing their set, they played their new single My Heart’s Dead! released on the 7th of August, which is currently sitting at number one on their Spotify. With an impressive discography already behind them and a new album in the works, Teenage Joans continue to cement themselves as one to watch.
Finally, after the incredible supporting acts had the crowd roaring, the main showcase of the night – the band I was itching to see – Slowly Slowly took the stage. Since reviewing their Forgiving Spree Australia Tour just shy of six months ago, I’ve become completely consumed with their moody tempos and mellow verses. I now consider myself quite the massive fan. Positioned at the barricade, I was ready to take in another unforgettable night. Vocalist Ben Stewart altered the setlist order midway through, but the band played along seamlessly as though it had been planned. The crowd loved every second, with favourites like Jellyfish (their current top Spotify track) and the ever-memorable closer Race Car Blues leaving no one disappointed. The talented Melbourne indie rock outfit – Ben Stewart (vocals/guitar), Albert Doan (guitar), Alex Quayle (bass), and Patrick Murphy (drums) – continue to shine with their clever witticisms and strong storytelling. Their most recent fifth studio album, which I reviewed during the Forgiving Spree tour, showcases songs such as Gimme the Wrench and the title track Forgiving Spree, both of which got the crowd singing and dancing along. They also paid homage to their roots, performing Sunburnt Shoulders from their 2018 album St. Leonards. With a set that spanned old favourites and newer tracks, the band catered to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Slowly Slowly still have nine shows left across Australia for their regional tour, including an additional show in Hobart due to overwhelming demand.
As always, I strongly recommend checking out these unbelievable bands I had the privilege of seeing and reviewing on Friday night. Given they’re all personal favourites of mine, I’m beyond grateful to witness the passion that pours out of their music and stories. Bukowski, Teenage Joans, and Slowly Slowly are all worth at least a listen. With more live shows across Australia – whether supporting or headlining – grab your tickets, bring your mates, and prepare for a spectacular night.