Brimstone Vs. Newcombe

So my man Brimstone took me along as his 'plus-one' to see the Brian Jonestown Massacre play at the Factory theatre, Marrickville, Sydney; last week. He was there to write a review...

...anyhow, great gig. Nothing major, then Brimstone tells me to check his review, and that Mr. Anton Newcombe FUKKIN SINGER OF THE BRAIN JONESTOWN MASSACRE and all-round-music-legend, wrote a reply.

Check out the match below, with Brimstone serving:

The Brian Jonestown Massacre have built up quite a following in Australia, with a tour last year and a sold out Metro gig a few days before this one. Stories abound of frontman Anton Newcombe's antics, ranging from endless jams to fistfights with the audience and general rockstar insanity. I was prepared for utter madness.

The night kicked off with Melbourne's Demon Parade and their Brian Jonestown style psychedelic rock. These guys were the perfect support, with their heavyish meandering psychedelic rock getting people into the BJM vibe but not upstaging the headliners. The vocals tended toward annoying 90s style grunge but the music was nice and they had one good song. Unfortunately, they played it six times.

This incarnation of Brian Jonestown Massacre was an eight-piece, with Anton Newcombe hiding on the far left of the stage, almost hidden behind a curtin. The band appeared to be lead by a tambourine/maraca player who's hypnotic beats anchored the first, Syd Barrett style song. It easily lived up to its inspiration, and people started throwing flowers and cups on stage. Amy from Sydney's The Black Ryder/Morning After Girls joined them but her weak, characterless voice couldn't match Anton's.

Anton Newcombe's voice was great, lending a humanity and gravitas to the most spacey songs. The set meandered from neo-psychadelica to Husker Du style alternate rock. Everything sounded great, with the heavy muzzy drums counterpointed by twisting melodic guitar lines. 'Cabin Fever', with its 'I Don't Wanna Die' ending, was a particular highlight. It was topped when Lovetones' singer Matt J Tow sang the incredible 'A New Low In Getting High'.

Anton Newcombe briefly stepped up to the mic to make a few jokes about AC/DC's carbon footprint and massive stage show. This failed to outrage anybody and 'Not If You Were The Last Dandy On Earth' inspired more dancing then pro-Dandy Warhols rioting. This was as controversial as the show got, and after a long encore and a few hits the lights went on and everyone filed home.

I admit I was disappointed that Brian Jonestown Massacre didn't put on a brilliantly shambolic show and pull stunts that I'd talk about for months to come. I can't complain about the music, though, and the already-great band was augmented by the local guests and the sense that Anton Newcombe was at peace with himself, or at least with the gig.

by Christian Brimo

And Mr. Newcombe's reply, with lots of blues, which i appreciate:

i want to thank you for taking the time to write about the show...i also want to tell you to go fuck yourself for bagging on aimee nash.i think your are a fucking cunt.if she reads this its going to hurt her feelings. its just music ok? i just want people to enjoy themselves and you are not doing anyone any favors.

i'm not perfect and don't really care what you think... but i want to encourage aussie artists to do their own thing...

so don't be a fucking bully to women or anyone for that matter.she's contributed to music down here with the morning after girls and now their new group.what have you done?

come on now.

And Brimstone hits back:

Hey Anton,

Thanks for responding! I had a really good time at the show and its nice to see that you've read my review.

I meant no disprespect to Aimee as a person. I wrote two lines commenting on her performance. As I saw it she didn't match the standard set by you, your band band or the other guest vocalist you introduced. I'd also seen her previous bands around Sydney and thought they were a bit lacking, musically.

I'm glad they're playing and getting out there and I think its awesome that you are supporting Australian bands. I've been a fan of the Lovetones for ages and seeing Matt Tow up there was a thrill.

However, when you perform or put any art out in public you open yourself up to judgement. Critics should judge on the art or performance, which is what I did. I didn't comment on Aimee's looks or personality - I commented on the one song I saw her performing with your band. Its my opinion, and I'm sure others will disagree.

I accept that when I write a review or perform with my band people will judge me. You've suffered your fair share of criticism but you've kept playing and suceeding.

Thanks for your time and your response. If I've offended Aimee tell her I'm sorry, and that nothing I say was directed at her personaly.

Thanks,

Christian Brimo

hmmmmmmm...... I wonder why Mr. Newcombe would even bother...