Review – Wagons

When a band describes their sound as “70s inspired boogie outlaw rock”, you know you’re in for something special. Melbourne boys Wagons came straight from the studio, where they’re recording a new album produced by Mick Harvey of Bad Seeds fame, to preview some new songs and blow the roof off the Spiegeltent for one night only.

Lead singer and guitarist Henry Wagons really knows how to work a crowd using his special brand of crazy. Wagons spins tales about strange German café attendants in Hahndorf for “Love Me Like I Love You”, and an unfortunate trip to Las Vegas as a teenager for “Escape my Fate”. He dashes into the audience to hug someone who reminds him of his aunty (!), then shoots daggers at someone in the front row while singing “Keep Your Eyes Off My Sister”. All before endeavouring to “ram Willy Nelson’s genius right down your throat” in a tribute culminating in a tuneful audience singalong. While it’s easy to focus your attention on the silver sequinned jacket and whacky antics of Henry Wagons, the other band members also bring plenty of talent. The bassist and drummer regularly swap duties and alternate backup vocals, and the guitarist’s hands are lightening fast.

The two debuted songs show plenty of promise for the upcoming album – “Speak To Her”, a plea for guys to man up, is still stuck in my head. Henry Wagons’ charisma is what really makes this show, so it will be interesting to see how it translates to a studio album. Next time they’re in town, I highly recommend catching their gig. Strap yourself in. Wagons is one helluva ride.