Here at SMHQ we try to channel the vibe of an older, simpler time online – because before our current, deeply stupid age, the internet could actually be more about making friends than influencing people. In that spirit, here's Top 8: a MySpace-inspired tribute from Eora's music community to the bands and artists that make them (and the city) tick.

Improv, instrumental, jazzy-but-genre-fluid acts are popping off big time in Sydney, and Manfredo Lament are one of the groups spearheading the local scene. Birthed from two university friends and a humble café residency off of Oxford St in Oct 2021, Manfredo Lament is the fully improvised music group led by Kurt Lam on synth and keys, and Gabriel Haslam on drums. Each show Kurt and Gabe are joined by a new lineup of musicians, often who have never played together. Manfredo Lament were nominated for Best Live Act at the FBi SMAC Awards last year, and I think it’s safe to say that they've played a part in inspiring the next gen's boom of instrumental artists. But in this Top 8, we hear from those that inspired them. With local acts like Foshe, Surprise Chef, and Godtet paving the way, it's no wonder Manfredo Lament are the way they are.

1. Act to see

Godtet is our favourite underground Sydney band and has been a big inspiration for Manfredo. Every Godtet show is a gorgeous display of musicianship and band chemistry, a lush and meditative performance from Sydney’s best musicians. Our favourite show was when they played with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra live at the Opera House for Vivid 2024. They have been really supportive of Manfredo and have always uplifted the Sydney scene.

2. Act to watch

Jacob Turl is a singer, song-writer, and producer who is a good friend of ours. He recently released an incredible EP ‘reverse garbage’. We’d tell you to get along to a live performance (with Gabe playing drums), but it seems a release is the focus so keep your eyes peeled!

3. Act you miss

R.I.P. THE REGIME! The project Kurt joined straight out of high school. The Regime curated a live experience like no other. They were an indomitable force in Sydney, crusading sexually-charged pulsating disco energy with 25 funkateers as a live ensemble. 6 frontmen, 3 guitarists, 2 keys, 6 horns, drums, percussion, dancers etc. You just had to be there. 

4. Act that inspires you

Manfredo Lament conceptually drew from Brisbane-based The Jazz House (a rotating cast of musicians) and Foshe (groove improv and live recording releases). The Manfredo sound changes for each gig, depending on the players, the space, and the crowd. But we both have musical influences which we’ve listed a couple of here.

Kurt: Floating Points, Nala Sinephro - Expressive and gorgeous synthesis and composition/arrangements. Jethro Mackenzie from Surprise Chef - Concise and intentional piano part-writing.

Gabe: Chris ‘Daddy’ Dave, Perrin Moss - Two drummers with the most creative part-writing skills, both with an undeniable groove. Both see rhythm on a different level to most drummers.

5. Act that you look up to

Gabe: Robert Glasper - Unbridled creativity and a dedication to their own unique sound, while being involved in multiple different LA scenes is kinda sick.

Kurt: Surprise Chef, Glass Beams - Finding success as an instrumental band from Australia is not easy, but they have reached an international audience playing cool music.

6. Act you treasure

Kurt: Marvin Gaye - I’m always singing Marvin Gaye in the car. Beautiful arrangements, super soulful performances, and it helps cleanse my aural palette after a show. ‘I Want You’ is in my top 5 albums.

Gabe: The Free Nationals - For a  ‘backing band’ to release one of the best albums of 2019, and under their own name too, is truly inspirational. Including features from Mac Miller, Kali Uchis, Anderson .Paak, Daniel Caesar, Syd, etc. I was listening to this album every time I got in the car for a long time. 

7. Act who raised you

Gabe: The Jimi Hendrix Experience - Every year me and my parents would drive down to Melbourne to visit my dad’s side of the family. The 8 hour drive was always soundtracked by the same couple CDs, mostly greatest hits. Santana, Cream, and of course The Jimi Hendrix Experience. Incredible guitarists underpinned by incredible drummers and rhythm sections.

Kurt: Chance the Rapper - I was not raised on any niche music growing up. My parents are Viet refugees so most of the time it was just top 100 radio tunes. Until 2017: my best friend from high school put me onto Chance the Rapper’s Acid Rap. I became obsessed with all of Chance’s discography which led into a classic pipeline of Childish Gambino, Kendrick Lamar, Tyler the Creator and Frank Ocean.

8. Act who are Sydney to you

Godtet is quintessential Sydney. Ultimately, they are the big brothers of the instrumental Sydney community. 

Check out Manfredo Lament

• Watch their live performances at The Playground, in Surry Hills Markets

• Catch their free show at VIVID Sydney supporting MonoNeon [USA]

• Listen to their debut EP, Movement, Saga & Fable

• YouTube

• Instagram