Live Review: Jensen Interceptor + Body Promise headline first Sydney lockout-free weekend

Sydney's first lockout free weekend was granted with one of the strongest local line ups of the Summer. While somewhat undocumented, despite Sydney’s lockout regime, a multitude of new, young and inspired promoters have entered the arena. From Finer Things throwing massive club nights, to the Velodrome crew dominating the DIY space, there’s an entire scene not covered by the press, or the majority of the mainstream community.

At the forefront of this movement is Warp Arts, a collective that prides itself in the realm of distorting the typical party experience. They curate events focused around forward-thinking, experimental electronic music. Friday night, January 17th, was an example of this, bringing together two of Australia’s underground heavyweights, Jensen Interceptor and Body Promise to one of Sydney’s most iconic venues, the Civic Underground.

Complemented by visual artist Sam Whiteside (known for their work for Soft Centre, Dark Mofo and Vivid Live), an LED/strobe focused art installation allowed the venue to match the vibe of the sonics. An industrial, uptempo haven.

Launching the main part of formal proceedings for the evening was Sydney icons Body Promise.  The label heads, radio show hosts, and experienced selectors brought a meticulously curated energy to the stage. Jungle breaks, acid licks, and garage tones dominated a sonically expansive 90 minutes. As the floor filled and energy increased, so did the vibe, as four to the floor drums rung more often and a more techno and abrasive sound sped through the 1s and 2s.

Then entered Jensen Interceptor. An artist known for a relentless approach to dance music, both output wise and sonically, he provided exactly that. Seismic bass bombs, abrasive techno, wicked compositions all combined to define Jensen as a turbo-floor steersman. From his electro originals, to his peers' gabber and ghetto house anthems, the set was barbaric in energy. Strobes flickered and warm lights flooded the room where patrons simply locked in. Highlights of the set included cult classic tracks by the elusive DJ Boneyard, forthcoming unreleased Skin on Skin, and fan classics from close peer Partiboi69. The 90 minutes was an example of what good Australian dance music is: engaging, infectious and expansive. Here's to many, many more nights like this.

Words and image by PARRY TRITSINIOTIS