Big Day Out 2003 - Gold Coast Review

Jamie Carson - 19 January 2003

Cold Beer, sunshine, Queens of the Stoneage and PJ Harvey... What more could you want? The Vines to impress? Nevermind. The Deftones were shot hot, though!

Gold Coast Parklands

I arrive to the opening strains of Waikiki's set on the main stage. Singles, 'Here Comes September' and 'New Technology' get an airing along with the vast majority of the 'I'm Already Home' album. With vocalist/bassist Juanita taking on rhythm guitar duties and the addition of a new bass player and keyboardist, the sound was the perfect thing to get the punters in festival mode.

Brisvegas band Shifter leapt into action on the local stage amidst the midday sun. Despite a relatively small turnout this didn't dampen the band's spirit at all with the guys belting out 'Julie Anne' and 'Contract Killer' amongst others. Those that were on hand were to witness something very special, with an amazing show from a band with a huge future.

Off to the nice shady Essential stage to catch King Mungi. With probably the biggest crowd the essential had all day, the Brisbane boys didn't disappoint. Upcoming single 'Something, Nothing' was a highlight, with the guys giving the performance their all to the joy of many happy punters.

Sweden's Millencolin were punking it up on the main stage with all the crowd faves but unfortunately the energy didn't translate too well. Still, the faithfull were happy and that's all that counts.

With a hard task ahead of them, The Deftones battled the hot afternoon sun with vengeance putting on a remarkable performance. Highlights including 'Be Quiet & Drive', 'Around the Fur' and 'Feiticera' putting an end to a long five year wait for the bands return to Oz. Despite a new album in the wings, no new tracks were aired but a brilliant show none the less.

The Vines followed on the mainstage and sounded quite disappointing compared to their recent performances in our fair country. After a few songs, I headed back to the local stage to check out some Hollow action. A heaving set put on by the local lads with a rather large crowd managing to pull themselves away from the mainstages. Relentless riffs and some fiery vocals made for some fine midafternoon metal.

Back to the shade and ex-At The Drive In crew, Sparta were doing some vocal chord damage at the essential stage. Despite a small turnout, the guys gave it everything and with vocalist/guitarist Jim Ward jumping around like a crazed madman, it was difficult not to enjoy.

After a small trek to the bar, it was time to hit the main stage once again for Queens Of The Stone Age. Despite a relatively weak sound, Josh and Co. put on a great show but midset, it was time to move on again, this time to witness the power and originality that is Cog.

Cog were amazing. I have never seen a band demand attention the way they do. Despite their Toolisms, the band never let song structure get in the way of a good jam or flow. The vocals and music never faultered and with an upcoming national tour in March, I think 2003 could be Cog's year.

Luke Slater meanwhile, was belting out the dance anthems with vigour. The bodies were shaking and the beats thumping as Luke brought his fine blend of dance music back to Queensland. Many smiling faces emerged from the aftermath, happy but tired.

PJ Harvey lit up the mainstage as only she can. Despite squeezing in amongst 'rock' acts, she made the stage her own and proved just how talented a songstress she really is. By this stage the darkness had set in and the impressive lighting mixed with PJ's heartfelt songs, made for a great way to end the day.