The night opened with Angharad Drake solo, performing 60s infused, Judith Durham inspired tunes. She built up her performance, firstly joined by a band member on double bass, then another on slide guitar played lap-style. She finished her set with the title track from her EP, Sword. I’ve seen her before and will see her again.

Shady Bliss was next to warm up the crowd for Deena, rocking things up, alternating vocals between guitarist and keys player. I detected a tinge of psych, which I like, and a little surf rock, but not at the same time. Their set demonstrates a strong influence by the music of The Doors. I believe this is the first time I’ve seen these guys and look forward to more of them.

Deena and band commenced their set with a long, atmospheric intro to their first song (new track “Harbour”) and got down to business. The set consisted of known tracks such as singles “Cupid” and “Turpentine”, whilst giving the crowd some first listens on tracks from the upcoming EP. New tracks showed a diversity of sound, from funky disco influences (a track which has a working title of “Phasing Love”), spaghetti western tones (“Curve”), and lots of rock with generous helpings of the blues (although not all at the same time). The highlight of the night for me was “Your Heart Is As Black As Night” where Deena demonstrated her vocal dynamics and held an impossibly long note towards the end, which was gloriously haunting for all that were present. In total, six new tracks were offered up for our eager ears.

Deena’s band consists of Jake on bass, Jasper on drums, and Joe on guitar and word on the street, from those who go to lots of their gigs is that this was their best gig yet. I'd have to agree.

In closing, from the man that introduced me to Deena: “This band just keeps getting better and better!” Before winning Most Promising Female Songwriter in the Queensland Music Awards, “Deena & her band unveiled a sneak peek of new songs at Black Bear Lodge and in the process has already staked her claim as a candidate for [another] award next year, such is the caliber of the new songs & the electrifying live performance.”

- Tina Walsh (Goldilocks Folk)