Boney tonight was a far cry from the Pony of old (or at least my memories of such, which by definition, are severely hindered), trading the raucous free-for-all of a scrappy 2am rock ‘n’ roll set for an exquisite presentation of overseas production talent. It was a good fit, compounding the resounding transformative success of Boney’s rise from Pony’s ashes.
Following on from the disappointing, and somewhat predictable, cancellation of Zomby’s headline show a few week’s prior, tonight provided solace for those looking for another share of OutsideIn sideshow action. Brooklyn producer Laurel Halo, who was set to appear at this year’s Sugar Mountain until unforeseen circumstances arose, and Berlin producer-DJ Objekt topped the bill, with local duo Standish/Carlyon providing a curious, yet complementary support.
Conducting a live set, navigating a desk of samples and triggers, Laurel Halo constructed a captivating set of at-times off-kilter grooves. It was at times disorienting, in a good way, with brooding pulses acting as tractor beams. It was an instrumental affair, choosing not to implement the vocals found on last year’s excellent Quarantine. There were long build-ups and worthy pay-offs, at times conjuring up something magical.
Opening up proceedings, Standish/Carlyon were in immaculate form as they performed material from their bass-heavy, percussion-sparse debut of this year Deleted Scenes.
Objekt capped off the night with a showing of stripped back techno. My mind was screaming to dance to the clanking beats, but my body – weary after many a cross-town journey during Grand Final day – gave in to the temptation of bed (via the servo for a late night snack).
BY LACHLAN KANONIUK
LOVED: Mirror ball vibes during Standish/Carlyon.
HATED: Some pungent aromas seemed to creep into the vicinity at times.
DRANK: All day and night.
