Gig Review: Carb on Carb @ Wine Cellar, Auckland – 17/05/2024

Carb On Carb took to the Wine Cellar stage in Auckland on Friday night to showcase their album Take Time which was released on the same day, 17 May, 2024. As soon as I heard this band I instantly thought they would be amazing live, and I wasn’t wrong. Some bands just bring an extra level when delivering their live performances and Carb on Carb are one of them.

The band are a two-piece and are comprised of Nicole Gaffney (vocals, guitar) and James Stuteley (drums). Gaffney had a great stage presence and they both bantered with the audience throughout the evening.

They joked that their take away message was “we’re from Whanganui”. Their ease, playfulness and composure thought out the show carried through into their music, particularly with the first track to their new album, titled 2009. It brought that punk pop vibe and a good dose of nostalgia. Try hard to not to dance to it, it’s difficult.

One thing I think the live experience really delivered on was the richness of the guitar sound Gaffney brings as her voice sinks into the rich, loud chords. I liked that her vocals weren’t the predominant sound. Instead the drums carry you away and the intensity of Gaffney’s voice follows, sort of a bit blurry if that makes sense. The duo wasn’t afraid to channel their woes into the lyrics at once sharing and reassuring the audience ahead of a song about a departed pet. It’s sincerity and I appreciate it.

Gaffney’s side hustle is working for an organisation championing music for young people, To The Front. The band continue their Take Time tour across a range of venues in Australia and New Zealand, be sure to go and check them out!