Once again the valley smells return to fill my nose as I enter the Black Bear Lodge, clearly too early, though just in time to see five men standing on stage while one of them DJ’s a not exactly breathtaking performance, but I can’t complain about the music selection.

First to take to the stage was the ever magnificent Mallrat who’s current success and long standing talent have made her a beacon of hope for young rappers in Australia. The performance was outstanding, I love when I can physically see an artist enjoying themselves onstage and this was a great instance of that. For someone who hasn’t had a tonne of onstage experience the performance felt refreshing, as did the music. Tunes that could lift your spirit up and out of the building filled the hearts of all who attended.

Spit Syndicate took to the stage with a stirring applause and a great deal of delight to fans who obviously stumbled in from the tavern to be there. While being constantly touched on the abdomen by a very over enthusiastic fan, Nick Lupi and Jimmy Nice gave a fantastic and sweaty performance to a crowded Black Bear Lodge. The energy these two put out was almost too much for the small stage to handle. By the end of the night everyone was happy they went but happier they were able to breathe in something other than body odour for the rest of the night.

- Hamish Deeth