It was sometime around ten o’clock when things went to the next level. Ozi Wrong was leaning hard into the full throttle punk vocals and Tim ‘Killa Whale’ Cooney had stepped into the Newcastle throng for a one-kneed, guitar salute to the crowd. Young Novocastrians were pin-balling off body parts and flinging themselves across the dance-floor of the Prince Hotel. As the crowd psychology kicked-in the mosh-pit became a roiling mass with a mind all of its own. The Goons hadn’t played in eight months but some fans were calling it one of their best gigs ever. One thing certainly wasn’t in dispute – everyone had a good time.
The Goons performance was also notable for the fact that Milo Blakey was standing in for his dad, Vaughan Dead, on vocals and rhythm guitar. Young Milo slipped seamlessly into the role, relishing the opportunity to play with a band that has brought the rage to the stage for over two decades. Big props to local act Midway, who played the undercard and are continuing the tradition of great acts coming out of Newcastle.
Photos: Andrew Christie
The Tracks Party Tour has three more gigs featuring the Goons and the unpredictable, improvised talents of DJ Eddy. The next event is at Bells, historically the home of some of the wildest Tracks parties. From there the tour moves to the Gold Coast and Sydney. Check the link for dates and tickets.
Bells Beach tickets – Purchase here – Supported by Yeti, Blackmans Brewery & Rip Curl
Gold Coast tickets – Purchase here – Supported by Yeti
Sydney tickets – Purchase here – Supported by Yeti, Curley Lewis & Oneill
