Editor of the blog for Perth music conference One Movement, Andrew McMillen, asked me to do a guest post over on that site. It’s basically five picks from the many artists showcasing there and I figured I’d post it up here as well. Whothehell.net regulars won’t find too many surprises here since these are acts we’ve given love to in the past, some of them have even gotten quite big since then, but in case you’ve been living under a rock and are heading to the conference then these are five acts you should push your way to the front for.

Also, turns out I don’t know a lot of the bands on this line-up, which confirms that I’m quite out of touch with the Perth music scene; what with it being way over there and everything – but I’m told it’s booming, and we have a Perth contributor these days so hopefully it’s getting some love. Anyone going to the conference, please comment about rad Perth bands you catch that we’ve neglected thus far.

It never hurts to re-cap some classixx anyway.

1. Sarah Blasko – ‘Don’t U Eva’

How can you go past Sarah Blasko? She sells out tours in Australia now, hopefully her presence at One Movement gives her some international momentum – she deserves it. Smokey vocals, some tight production and a great song here. This was her debut single and that piano line still gets me every time.

www.myspace.com/sarahblasko

2. Snob Scrilla – ‘Chasing Ghosts’

Combining elements rock, electro and hip hop can have mixed results, but for every latter-day Dizzee Rascal there’s a Snob Scrilla. This one’s from both his EP and album and I listened to it a whole lot when I was first introduced to his stuff. Had it been a vinyl I’d have likely worn down the grooves. Also check out album cut ‘King John,’ one of my favourites of 2009.

www.myspace.com/snobscrilla

3. Philadelphia Grand Jury – ‘Going To The Casino (Tomorrow Night)’

These guys have been everywhere in 2009. This is a super energetic and catchy song and it only feels more vibrant live. Their first single and still probably the best summation of their strengths. They’ve toured a shitload and most people have probably already caught them treading the boards, but if not then they’re definitely one to get to the front for.

www.myspace.com/philadelphiagrandjury

4. I Heart Hiroshima – ‘Captain to Captain’

What these guys do with just two guitars (no pedals) and a drum kit still knocks me over. It’s all about the riffs – and the vocals; Matt Somers sound like he’s having an anxiety attack whenever he sings. A great live show replete with crowd banter to mix with the best. I’m eagerly anticipating their sophomore album.

www.myspace.com/ihearthiroshima

5. Canvas Kites – ‘Wayside’

Canvas Kites are the new project from Thom Moore of Mercy Arms (aka the Britney/K-Fed of Australian bands). I liked that band and I like what I’ve heard from this one too (which is pretty much just this song). I’ve not seen them live but it sounds like it would translate well. Let me know what you think if you see them.

www.myspace.com/canvaskites

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