Barrelfish lists their influences, among others, as bands like the Doors and Led Zeppelin. These inspirations are clear as day, despite the much simpler version that Barrelfish takes on those familiar sounds. Their upbeat song, ‘Blow My Mind’ works with an almost AC/DC like groove on guitar, and mixes that with the laid back vocal stylings of singers like Jim Morrison. The female singer of Barrelfish has some serious vocal power, full of dark mood and husky grit, plus a vocal range to compete with the best female classic rock singers out there. The vocal harmonies are a nice touch and the lyrics are fantastic, with lines like, “I’m ready for a free fall, from the 52nd floor, I won’t feel pain, my back’s against the wall” epitomizing a kind of 70’s drug-infused recklessness that fuels the greatest rock and roll of all time, and adds a serious energy to Barrelfish’s original tunes. They are scheduled to release a full-length album this spring. But while you’re waiting for news on that, don’t miss the chance to check them out live at the X&Y Bar in Brisbane this weekend for the 1st step of the competition.