The Hamilton Circle Jerk 5th Anniversary
Posted: Thu Apr 16, 2009 11:12 am

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If a tradition becomes a tradition at the half decade mark Hamilton's so called 'Circle Jerk' is about to qualify. Held annually since 2005 Circle Jerk is the brainchild of long time local musician Mark Tupuhi, a kind of sarcastic response to New Zealand music month and the perceived slights often visited upon the Waikato region during May. Tupuhi's concept is simple, and has proved effective. It involves Hamilton talent covering the material of their peers and predecessors, playing three song sets comprised of one original number and two by other local bands.

The masturbatory act referenced in the event name deliberately sent the message that Tupuhi and his collaborators were not overly precious about 'celebrating' the culture. The 2005 poster rammed the point home. Despite this the inaugural gig saw twelve bands of diverse genres and age groups play a wide range of music, referencing the mainstream with covers of the likes of Split Enz and Dragon and 48May as well as championing cult acts like Wendyhouse, Book of Martyrs and Spatula Death.

A couple of trends emerged from the first show that have persisted ever since. Firstly, Circle Jerk provided the impetus for the temporary reformation of long defunct bands. 2005 saw the resurrection and the last performance to date of Schrodinger's Cat and Disjecta Membra. Secondly, it became apparent that some material lent itself more to reinterpretation than others. The satirical, obscene lyrics of local legends Mobile Stud Unit have a continuing popularity, as does Chris Thompson's parochial anthem Hamilton.

The 2006 Circle Jerk saw a change in organisational personnel and in venue, with a literal shift underground to Ward St's Yellow Submarine. The format remained essentially the same, with bands like The Shrugs and Amy Racecar returning and perennial favourites Rumpus Room and Dick Dynamite and the Doppelgangers making their debut. In a night of young pretenders arguably the best performance came last, from veteran
covers band Johnny Fist, with blistering versions of Dogs of Prozac's 'Fonzie Gets The Girls' and MSU's story of Pete Sinclair, 'Marmite Man'.

It was perhaps not until its third year that Circle Jerk truly lived up to its potential. The 2007 gig was held at the Ward Lane tavern and attracted a huge crowd. It also saw a greater range in the line up than ever before, from the acoustic singer-songwriter Kimbra to the hardcore punk act Gawj. In between these extremes there was melodic pop from Dynamo Go and The Gills, rockabilly from Dick Dynamite and Doppelgangers, the indie synth sound-scape of The Deadly Deaths, and the only live performance from the Mobile Stud Unit, whose 'poop remix' of 48May's 'Leather and Tattoos' was a highpoint. Also notable was the contribution of Ministry of Hypocrisy whose electronic replication of 706 Hamilton songs simultaneously was nothing if not different.

Last year saw Circle Jerk return to its original venue of Digger's back bar on Hood St. Utilising two stages for the first time the transition between bands was achieved with record speed. The greater space also afforded more electronic acts than hitherto possible, seeing the debut performance of Doteyes, DJ Handbreak and a polished, professional effort complete with music video from the all round genius of One Fat Man. Other highlights included some distinctive ukulele stylings and percussion from the 25 year veterans The Big Muffin Serious Band, a bizarre set from event founder Tupuhi which somehow blended Crowded House with MSU, and a show stopping version of Dead Pan Ranger's 'California Dream' by a Rumpus Room line up bolstered by radio personality Kerry Cooper.

The fifth anniversary of Circle Jerk, also set for the back bar of Diggers, promises much. An effort will be made to further diversify the music on display, minimising repeat performances and incorporating reggae and dub into the line up.

Whilst its origins were relatively humble the Circle Jerk premise has proved a robust one, showcasing a wide variety of Hamilton performers and song writers. In its short history it has already become a musical focal point and social highlight of the year, breaking down the artificial barriers between differing styles and 'scenes', catering for as wide an audience as possible while retaining the uniqueness and integrity of individual acts.

The Hamilton Circle Jerk
23rd of May
Flow Bar
Victoria Street
8pm start $ 10.00 on the door

Sora Shima
Sora Shima are gaining national and international attention with their current CD release. They have had feature articles in Real Groove, NZ Musician and international reviews for Gods in the TV (UK) and other notable sites. Their tracks 'Firearms' and 'Calor Humano' have been featured on BBC 6 UK’s much praised Tom Robinson sessions and noted for being one of the up and coming bands for 2009

Sora Shima have supported notable international acts such as Broken Social Scene, and national acts such as Dimmer, The Mint Chicks, Jakob and Spectrum, they have also played at the much celebrated Camp a Low Hum. They have gained popularity both nationally and internationally, and are currently working on a full album release and tour. Recently their EP received 4/5 stars in Real Groove magazine.

Knights of the DUB Table
Knights of the DUB table are currently receiving rave reviews after much celebrated support slots for such notable dub and reggae acts as Cornerstone Roots, Katchafire, D Dub and The Versionaries. As one of the strong contenders at the 2008 Band Experiments awards they have gone from strength to strength, making their mark in the dub and reggae genre with appearances at Tribal Pride and Vilagrads Summer Vines Music Festival.
Dynamo Go, are currently releasing their much anticipated album 'The Fool Of Fountain City'.

Noted as one of the few bands not a afraid of writing a gorgeous pop song in Hamilton. They are currently touring in April in support of their Album, along side Lindon Puffin and other notable national acts.

They have national exposure with articles in www.amplier.co.nz and www.undertheradar.co.nz, Kiwi Fm Broadcasts and have also played Camp a Low Hum. They have been great supporter of local events with one member starting a local guide gig and Band Experiments.

Dick Dynamite and The Doppelgangers
Described as NZ best Psychobilly rock band if not the only, Dick Dynamite just released their E.P last year, Currently just back from tour dates in Australia in support of their release, They have also played Camp A Low Hum and the Annual PunkAs fest. They have also been featured in NZ musician mag and www.undertheradar.co.nz. One of the best rockabilly bands you will see live!

The Deadly Deaths
known as one the best Hamilton music acts The Deadly Deaths have been a main stay in the Hamilton music scene, with members currently doing videos projects and other musical projects, It is very rare Hamilton gets treated to seeing them live. The Deadly Deaths always promise interesting covers… with awesome reviews in Real Groove. NZ musician Mag, and Rip It UP.

Other Bands

Goulash Archipelago
Doteyes
Dymano Go
The Shrugs
The Prime Numbers
Radiator
Sumo Love Machine
Rumpus Room
Dharma Junkies

And more to be announced...


Link to National Radio segment about CJ 08
http://www.radionz.co.nz/__data/assets/audio_item/0003/1843716/nrmtalk-20090122-1530-Hamilton_Music-wmbr.asx

RE: The Hamilton Circle Jerk 5th Anniversary
Posted: Sun Mar 21, 2010 11:52 pm

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