I met Matt in a friends lounge room in the early 90's in Sydney .. we chatted and i told him how much I loved 'Short Note' he picked up his guitar & played & sang for me ... What a beautiful moment .. I truly feel blessed to have experienced that moment xxx
Lucky girl! Matt was a friend of mine at High School in Springwood , Blue Mountains, NSW Australia, his talent was hidden from most at the time , but was discovered later! as he made a name for himself! I remember his school days band Rum Jungle, saw them at the Warrimoo hall one night and they were awesome, Tony Curry was the singer on the night, who looked great in his flag singlet, but was too nervous to do the whole gig, so Matt took over the vocals, and his talent shone through, Tony did his best and I understand his nervousness because Matt was a force to be reckoned with, anyway the rest is history,.... RIP Matt, hope you are still doing it somewhere!!!
I also loved Matt Finish and especially "Short note " and also Layman's Day . And your drumming John what great chops you have 😍 I lived in Hong Kong for 5 years in the 80's after leaving Sydney and remember my first job well and hearing Short note played on the radio regularly. I had a Cover band in Hong Kong and we played a couple of Matt Finish songs which I loved . On returning to Sydney in 1988 My Sister Lisa was sharing a place at Western Avenue in North Manly with good mate Steve Carroll . A year or so later Matt came to live at Steve's place in North Manly . I only then realised that Steve and Matt were best mates .....Matt was madly trying to get fit again so he could play his music as he had gained weight . Along with the rest of us ! I remember vividly Matt running on the spot with a walkman on daily sweating trying to get himself in top shape as if it were Yesterday. As luck would have it I also got into talking with him and soon enough I also set my drums up and played Short note and Layman's day with him . He was definitely left of centre Matt very quirky and incredibly unique and nothing like I expected but had a Big heart ! It's a great memory, and I one I will never forget . My last memory of Matt was he playing with some other great Aussie legends at the Great Northern Hotel at Chatswood with Daryl Braithwaite....and others .... R.I.P Matt you were taken from us too soon ,but your music will live on and touch us forever x
From where I live now far away I drift back to Sydney in the 80’s with this song…growing up, I feel everything and see everything, I sense the girl I loved, the friends I had, the places I went, my family. This song creates that mood. What a song.
From the first time I heard this in 1980 as a 22 yo to right now as a 64 yo this song for me captures that feeling of the end of struggle, the end of trying to explain, the end of trying to control and the peace that comes with the resignation and acceptance of the joy and pain life's journey brings. I see my errors now, too much when and how, and you blow it anyway x
This band and Matt M should be inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame. There is no peer for this music. I am 57 and used to watch Matt Finish at Sydney Uni-they were simply awesome and are the epitome of the 1980's when music was played well. RIP Matt M and thanks to John Prior who offers comments and details of recordings. Thanks again for the memories
One of the best songs ever crafted in Australian music..geez they were a classy unit both live and in the studio. Testament to the late great Matt Moffitt.
Matt Moffitt from age 4 you knew what you wanted to be. You did it! From heaven you are inspiring and moving people to tears! I’m so proud of you . I love you. Look after everyone until we are all together and feel all our love. Love you Matt Slugger Xsxrb
Oh yes....they were the days ..saw this band many times ..at Selinas...what an awesome time....and yet those waves keep rolling in...and still will long after we're gone....from Maroubra to Cronulla...up n down the coast...calm but not asleep...tomorrow's years away....❤🙌🙏😢
As somebody who lived in western Sydney and grew up listening to brilliant musicians from Australia through my school years in the early 80's. You have been truly blessed
Takes me back to the early to mid 80's when naivety and youth had me brimming with vitality...optimism......Which evaporated all too soon.....Like our lives overall really. *Beautiful song; a special time for so many. Thx.
Was lucky enough to see him live in Melbourne in 84. My sister and I always thought that he was brilliant, and the show was no exception. I am so glad I went that night and got to see an incredible talent. So sad that he's gone.
Would have been the one time i really wanted to go, but despite going out a lot on my own, felt apprehensive on that occasion. From memory, a weeknight and in North Melbourne. I wasnt familiar with the venue. Just telling my daughter now im sorry i didnt see them. Think i was driving right near there when i heard the bad news.
@@karenglenn6707 was a special time for music in Melbourne, and Australia. My favourite bands/artists are still mostly Aussie. Even now, Magic Dirt, The Superjesus. Grinspoon. (A far cry from the hard rock n metal tribute bands I usually see). Divinyls i saw as many times as possible, about 6. Renee Geyer. I see Rick Grossman was also in Matt Finish. We have had so many great artists who are distinctive in voice, not overprocessed, just raw and beautiful. And precious. Never forgotten.
@@annesash4510I often wish that I could go back and do it again. How lucky we were to be alive and at the right age to enjoy what was going on here musically. I got to see AC/DC live so many times as a teen with Bon Scott, so exciting at the time and my ears would ring for 2 days afterwards. My best wishes to you, we need a Time Machine!!
oh how I miss his amazing voice, lyrics and deep messages. I discovered Matt Finish backing up The Oils many many years ago and fell in love that night. Rest in Peace you gorgeous man such a brilliant light...
Im 72 years old and to this day the best live show I've ever been to was Mat finish at the regent theatre Ballarat absolutely superb show fantastic venue with superb acoustics.
I had the pleasure of being in a band (Barefoot) that supported Matt Finish in Sydney in the 90's. I was totally star struck by MM, couldn't speak to him at the time as a result, he was a strong influence in my teens. Superb songs. But my biggest regret at the time was that JP wasn't playing drums then. Man that cat could play solid. Great band, amazing drummer. RIP Matt, gone but never forgotten. Russ
The album Short Note was a soundtrack for my friends and I, all turning 18 and 19 during its year of release. We lived in a large coal industry town, a pretty rough and hard-drinking town with a well-established drug culture, so finding distractions (from the more damaging distractions) was a bit of a blessing. This band and that 1st album was one such blessing. Three or four years later, having pried myself away from my hometown, I got a call from a friend who'd also fled to Melbourne. Matt Finish were playing that night at the Westside Nitespot/Tarmac Hotel in Laverton - all of which I'd never heard of. I hadn't ventured outside of my St Kilda bubble apart from the odd trip to Richmond and the city. I always stayed east of the Westgate Bridge. But a few hours later we were off the bridge and in the west, the night lit up by the flares of the petrochemical plants all around us. While I was waiting at the bar for a couple of pots I wondered whether we'd be leaving the venue without getting thumped. It was giving off a definite vibe. In fact it was almost like being back home. As it happened though, the night went without a hitch. The way I remember it, the band came on, took control of the room, held control, and won it over. As only a great rock 'n' roll band can do. I still have the entry ticket from that night - the perforation remains unbroken because, I guess, I was having too much of a good time in the music to be bothered giving half the ticket to the woman in the servery for the 'supper provided' that the ticket said I was entitled to! The mate that accompanied me to that gig, he died five years later. Cancer, rather than misadventure. And when I think of that night, or hear that album, and this song in particular, it reminds me of him, and the best parts of then. Thank you.
@Tuffmouth you just described my life too ❤ I escaped and others didn’t. This song encapsulates freedom for me. Breaking out of a mould. Luckily I’ve made and had a great life. Hope you have too. 🎼🎸✌❤
@@jaynietee000 I had a few false starts (and occasionally was my own worse enemy), but yeah, all things considered its turned out pretty well. I really can't complain. Thank you for your thoughtful note - it really made me smile, and I'm sincerely glad to hear your life became, and remains, a good one :)
@@lignitedaze I hear you. 😸Considering where we are today and current state of the world I’m glad I had the upbringing I did. Makes me grateful as I learned to survive and appreciate the little things. Glad you’re in a good place. Love that something like a song can connect two strangers. Take care. J ❤✌
@@jaynietee000 Yeah, it does leave a lot to be desired, this currently lopsided version of the world, but at least we still have music. It's certainly been a lifeline for me in the weird murk of 2020-22. As its been for most of my life, come to think of it! I also love that a song can make an instant connection across the aether between a couple of strangers. The power of pop music, I guess. :-) (An aside: I popped into the Bourke St JB today, and what fantastic, bright yellow object did I see at the front of the vinyl racks? The Short Note LP. And while I don't really need a 3rd copy myself, I was thrilled by the notion of someone else taking a punt on it and hearing it for the 1st time) You take care too J S ❤🎸
@@lignitedaze Ah..as an ex Melbourne girl I hear you. 😀 I just introduced a 26 year old to the Sunnyboys. 😀 She’s besotted and although their catalogue is small..it’s good. You’re so on point with ‘weird murk’. I could never have imagined the last two years but hopefully there’s light at the end of the tunnel (and it’s not the train coming to run us over 😀) I’ve created a calm happy bubble and try and block out the negative and focus on what we can do. There’s always tunes running in the background. ❤❤
One of my favourite songs, such emotion coming through, used to make me feel like crying. Even though still a very young girl, I really picked up on a lot of sadness emanating through the radio. Thank You, to all the members of the band at the time who played on this track.
Here here Matt Moffit, unfortunate that such a talent has passed. I bought this album in the 80's, but due recognition was not given to such heart felt music........
this has been my favorite song since i first heard it (back in the day) . It's the ring tone on my phone and not to sound morbid, but also the song i picked for my funeral... when it's my time. Until then, i will listen to it as much as i can
Never get sick of listening to this song. I don't know what it is about it, it brings up a sort of nostalgia of when I was young, growing up, going out. Back then, when I was younger, I didn't know what was ahead in my life, how was it going to turn out. Fom the look of the crowd in the filmclip, there was a different attitude back then
Just a short note You'll find the key inside There's no one home tonight But come in anyway The shallow sea Calm, but not asleep You're gonna wade into the deep Tomorrow's years away And now I know Why darkness makes me smile The night will have its child And the wind will wind away The wind will wind away Until you're telling your friends we died Laughing still But the vessel that you fill Will be your own Wade into the deep How much can you see, Before we're all the same Those words I wrote I see my errors now There's too much when and how And you blow it anyway The shallow sea Calm, but not asleep You're gonna wade into the deep Tomorrow's years away Every day, every day, every day And now I know Why darkness makes me smile The night will have it's child And we'll all just blow away Just watch us blow away Until you're telling your friends we died Laughing still But the vessel that you fill Will be your own Wade into the deep How much can you see Before we're all the same Show me
Will never grow old. Timeless. Strings felt weird , only knowing the original. Who cares. Would love a dollar for every time I've come home to knock myself out with this track. Thanks Mr Moffit, touched alot of younger people than you realise or care. Beautiful Music.
Great talent.. knew Matt from high school daze in a band Rum Jungle.... our band Bacchus Marsh and Rum Jungle would perform together on the same bill at dances across the Blue Mountains in the early 70s. R.I.P. Matt
Always loved this song. Great time in my life when this was around. I always thought it was Mark Hunter sang this. So sad that both these wonderful writers/singers are no longer with us. at least we'll always treasure such great songs they left for us to enjoy. Thanks guys. Love & Peace!!
A stunning song. I came acroos Matt Finish completely by accident as they were performing at Melbourne University around 1980/81 when I worked there. I couldn't tear myself away from their performance and went to see them any time they came to Melbourne. Matt Moffitt was so gorgeous, charismatic and such a good singer. I still listen to them on You tube on a regular basic. Sad he is not with us now.
This brilliant song transports me back to year 1 in primary school and me trying to figure out why i love this song so much and now today as a 54 year old, I know exactly why!!!!!!!!!!!
Never get sick of hearing this song, so many memories of such a happy crazy time. R.I.P. Matt and our dear friend Beckky, seperate entities. I still visit Beck's grave out at Botany in the Jewish section and leave the odd flower. 10 days before her 21st birthday she was gone. Matt and the Finish were just majic to our ears.
1st heard this LIVE in 1980 at an Open Air Concert 3 Day Festival at Stroud, NSW called "Tanelorn". This song stopped me in my tracks. Amongst the thousands, the darkness & the dust, it was surreal hearing this beautiful ballad performed.
Still Listen and Play Matt Finish in My Car and at Home just a brilliant band who were unique and Such Talents real Aussie Music should be acknowledged into the Hall Of Fame 100% saw Then at the tivoli in sydney many years ago RIP Matt
I just went to Bunnings at Belconnen, Canberra where this song was playing. Came home and spent about two hours searching for it and finally found it. Had no idea this was an Australian group and the lead singer died way before his time. Very sad to learn that. Beautiful song!
Saw matt at sundowner hotel the song short note was aired for the first time two days prior. We fell in love with the song rushed to sundowner everyone is in the beer garden while me and my four Muso mates were the only ones in the room watching the band . They sat with us in the break and let us play a few songs at the beginning of there second set matt was a gentleman his greater songs were never recorded. we were there first fans
One of the greatest songs ever composed that I have heard in my lifetime. Matt Moffitt was a truly remarkable songwriting genius. Long live his music for years to come.
It's so beautiful since it's based on a very pretty I IV major 7th chord combo of sublime simplicity first popularised Erik Satie in Gymnopédie No.1 in I believe 1901? Matt's twist on it was equally sublime with great lyrics and vocal delivery.
This song will always stay with me, I had seen Matt Finish live so many times in the 80s. Thanks so much for providing some of the soundtrack to my youth.
Reminds me of roller skating on family holidays down the coast over Christmas. I fell in love with girls in summer and the memories and nostalgia this song creates in me is almost overwhelming! Vale Matt. What a song!!! 💔
I'm 69 and first saw Matt Finish in August '79 at The Stagedoor Tavern, then MF took up weekly occupancy in The Civic. In November 2JJ broadcast MF from The Civic. In December we hired them for $200 for a friend's 21st birthday at a day gig in North Sydney. She was over the moon. I would also recommend contacting John Prior as he has the CDs and a DVD of the Musician's Club. Awesome band and sadly missed.
I am nearly 66. Matt went to Springwood High School. He was in a band called Rum Jungle. Drummer Colin Booth (currently plays in (Audio Archive,). Katoomba High School. Warren McAlister guitarist Katoomba High School. My friend Bruce owned a record shop and he and Matt were friends. I was 14 when they played at our school dances. I still remember him looking just like he did in short note, just younger. He was so cute. Every time I here this song the hairs on my neck stand up and I feel very teary and sad
From a time long gone now.... but not forgotten.... we can only be thankful that Matt left this legacy for us to enjoy for the years to come... I feel privileged to have been there in the 80s as many of us do.... I'd give everything I have just to return to this time.
Its funny how 1 tiny thing can lead on to another.I don't remember what I thought at the time,but it made me think of Matt Finish.Had not heard the song for yonks.(a long time for those that don't understand).I bought the cassette back in the early 80's I absolutely loved this song.Decided to check it out here and what memories it stired..To dwsnare,I checked out wikipedia and yes unfortunately,Matt passed away in 2003,may he REST IN PEACE.Thankyou to all of Matt Finish for such a song.Stay Safe
Haven't heard Short Note for such a long time but watching it now blew me away now, as much as it did then ! To Debbie.K that certainly would have been an amazing moment and one to remember for ever ! Thankyou for sharing it with us
What a great band......we used to see them every week ( Mon. nights?) in Sydney at some hotel (?)..always awesome gigs. Yep , as others have said --> RIP MM xxx
heartbreaker :( we can hold our heads high in the music world with gems like this.songs, they are eternal...better than headstones....we all get to hear this. how long will i be here? songs will be remembered, we will be forgotten m50
Matt FInish...... my mid teen years where intertwined with MF. The Sundowner Hotel on Friday night.... Lost my girlfriend the night we saw MF at the "Sunny"...thought i'd never be able to breathe again..all to the backdrop of these tunes being belted out. Now i sit and listen to this 30 years later. WOW. This tune stirs such emotion in me that i had to stop sit and think about life for the rest of the afternoon. So sad to hear about MM's passing. @ Lucy Sorry for your loss- no words compensate
I've always loved this song...I don't remember the orchesration in the original so if it was added...brilliant...if it wasn't added then THANK GOD its here so I can relive the beauty any time I feel like it
I met Matt in a friends lounge room in the early 90's in Sydney .. we chatted and i told him how much I loved 'Short Note' he picked up his guitar & played & sang for me ... What a beautiful moment .. I truly feel blessed to have experienced that moment xxx
You are so lucky, I never saw him live but am glad to have his musical memory for life.
Wow! Really! That’s amazing. Love this song ❤️
did he write you a short note if he did it would look like this (.)
Lucky girl! Matt was a friend of mine at High School in Springwood , Blue Mountains, NSW Australia, his talent was hidden from most at the time , but was discovered later! as he made a name for himself! I remember his school days band Rum Jungle, saw them at the Warrimoo hall one night and they were awesome, Tony Curry was the singer on the night, who looked great in his flag singlet, but was too nervous to do the whole gig, so Matt took over the vocals, and his talent shone through, Tony did his best and I understand his nervousness because Matt was a force to be reckoned with, anyway the rest is history,.... RIP Matt, hope you are still doing it somewhere!!!
I also loved Matt Finish and especially "Short note " and also Layman's Day .
And your drumming John what great chops you have 😍
I lived in Hong Kong for 5 years in the 80's after leaving Sydney and remember my first job well and hearing Short note played on the radio regularly.
I had a Cover band in Hong Kong and we played a couple of Matt Finish songs which I loved .
On returning to Sydney in 1988 My Sister Lisa was sharing a place at Western Avenue in North Manly with good mate
Steve Carroll . A year or so later Matt came to live at Steve's place in North Manly .
I only then realised that Steve and Matt were best mates .....Matt was madly trying to get fit again so he could play his music as he had gained weight . Along with the rest of us !
I remember vividly Matt running on the spot with a walkman on daily sweating trying to get himself in top shape as if it were Yesterday.
As luck would have it I also got into talking with him and soon enough I also set my drums up and played Short note and Layman's day with him .
He was definitely left of centre Matt very quirky and incredibly unique and nothing like I expected but had a Big heart !
It's a great memory, and I one I will never forget . My last memory of Matt was he playing with some other great Aussie legends at the Great Northern Hotel at Chatswood with Daryl Braithwaite....and others ....
R.I.P Matt you were taken from us too soon ,but your music will live on and touch us forever x
From where I live now far away I drift back to Sydney in the 80’s with this song…growing up, I feel everything and see everything, I sense the girl I loved, the friends I had, the places I went, my family. This song creates that mood. What a song.
From the first time I heard this in 1980 as a 22 yo to right now as a 64 yo this song for me captures that feeling of the end of struggle, the end of trying to explain, the end of trying to control and the peace that comes with the resignation and acceptance of the joy and pain life's journey brings. I see my errors now, too much when and how, and you blow it anyway x
I was born in 1964 … I’m only 23 and making mistakes every day! Gee we had some great bands in our youth!
wow nicely-put: I might borrow for a lyric(and cut you in, lol) if that ok
@@GaZonk100Go for it 😎
One of the most iconic australian songs ,so underrated ,sublime ,captures the most beautiful atmosphere of Australia in the 80s ,Just superb.
i cry everytime i hear this, big sook i am.
Can't even think of a song on this level it just gets u every time you here it absolutely iconic
This band and Matt M should be inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame. There is no peer for this music. I am 57 and used to watch Matt Finish at Sydney Uni-they were simply awesome and are the epitome of the 1980's when music was played well. RIP Matt M and thanks to John Prior who offers comments and details of recordings. Thanks again for the memories
Awesome
I'm also 57 and used to see them live in Sydney. Quite often Manzil room and other places
Thanks for your post Peter, I'm with you, this music still moves my heart.....
Yep...
My favourite song ever xx
One of the best songs ever crafted in Australian music..geez they were a classy unit both live and in the studio. Testament to the late great Matt Moffitt.
Lovely comment - couldn't agree more!
This song has given me goosebumps from the first time I heard it decades ago... now 52 and still loving it more than ever
Wonderful song the 80s when you could see 3 live bands in 1 n I night
2021....40 years listening to this brilliant song. RIP M.M.
Best Aussie ballad ever, I never get tired of it. R.I.P Matt. Australia misses you.
🥺🌹💔♥️🇦🇺🎶🥰We sure do miss him 🌹
This is not just one of Australia's most beautifully crafted songs with MM's sublime vocal talent, it is one of these world's greatest songs......
Matt Moffitt from age 4 you knew what you wanted to be. You did it! From heaven you are inspiring and moving people to tears! I’m so proud of you . I love you. Look after everyone until we are all together and feel all our love. Love you Matt Slugger Xsxrb
This song will always be the song of my youth, and the anthem of life, it still brings me tears when I listen to it. I eternally love it
Omg me too
Same here
this takes me back to summers sitting on my panel van bonnet having a smoke watching the waves roll in. thanks for this.
Another Dingo best days hey? Best music too
that was a big club brother
Oh yes....they were the days ..saw this band many times ..at Selinas...what an awesome time....and yet those waves keep rolling in...and still will long after we're gone....from Maroubra to Cronulla...up n down the coast...calm but not asleep...tomorrow's years away....❤🙌🙏😢
This !
So glad I grew up in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs during this time, best times and experiences.
This is the song every musician wishes they had written
Grew up with this, played at my mums funeral. Legend!!
Grant! Get back in touch buddy.
As somebody who lived in western Sydney and grew up listening to brilliant musicians from Australia through my school years in the early 80's. You have been truly blessed
80' s simple times...Beautiful music Beautiful memories 💓
Takes me back to the early to mid 80's when naivety and youth had me brimming with vitality...optimism......Which evaporated all too soon.....Like our lives overall really. *Beautiful song; a special time for so many. Thx.
Michael James Glenn For me as well, a special time
I still love this. Mine never evaporated though. It is still with me.
I feel exactly the same. 30+ Year’s of Doing The Right Thing later and you wonder what the point was.
Michael James Glenn I see my errors now. Can relate 100%
Yeah, that's where it takes me too.
One of the closest songs to perfection ... Still miss ya, Matt - a great talent and a nice guy
Beautiful Australian song takes me back to my to my youth. I remember buying Short Note at my local record store in Vinyl
Was lucky enough to see him live in Melbourne in 84. My sister and I always thought that he was brilliant, and the show was no exception. I am so glad I went that night and got to see an incredible talent. So sad that he's gone.
Would have been the one time i really wanted to go, but despite going out a lot on my own, felt apprehensive on that occasion. From memory, a weeknight and in North Melbourne. I wasnt familiar with the venue. Just telling my daughter now im sorry i didnt see them. Think i was driving right near there when i heard the bad news.
@@annesash4510we saw him at The Dorset Gardens Hotel in Croydon on a Saturday night. So fricking good!!
@@karenglenn6707 was a special time for music in Melbourne, and Australia. My favourite bands/artists are still mostly Aussie. Even now, Magic Dirt, The Superjesus. Grinspoon. (A far cry from the hard rock n metal tribute bands I usually see). Divinyls i saw as many times as possible, about 6. Renee Geyer. I see Rick Grossman was also in Matt Finish. We have had so many great artists who are distinctive in voice, not overprocessed, just raw and beautiful. And precious. Never forgotten.
@@annesash4510it was a brilliant time to be alive for music, in Melbourne during the 70’s and 80’s. Was a great time in my,life!!!
@@annesash4510I often wish that I could go back and do it again. How lucky we were to be alive and at the right age to enjoy what was going on here musically. I got to see AC/DC live so many times as a teen with Bon Scott, so exciting at the time and my ears would ring for 2 days afterwards. My best wishes to you, we need a Time Machine!!
Still listening in 2019! 'Tomorrow's years away'.
Me too!
2021 I'VE GOT IT ON U-TUBE NOW 🎸👀💯🤣👌
@@darrenstowe3204 me too!
Me too, Oct 2022, on replay on spotify. Love Matt's vocals, reminded me of Marc Hunter. Short Note is my fav song. Gone too soon Matt RIP
oh how I miss his amazing voice, lyrics and deep messages. I discovered Matt Finish backing up The Oils many many years ago and fell in love that night. Rest in Peace you gorgeous man such a brilliant light...
Im 72 years old and to this day the best live show I've ever been to was Mat finish at the regent theatre Ballarat absolutely superb show fantastic venue with superb acoustics.
I had the pleasure of being in a band (Barefoot) that supported Matt Finish in Sydney in the 90's. I was totally star struck by MM, couldn't speak to him at the time as a result, he was a strong influence in my teens. Superb songs. But my biggest regret at the time was that JP wasn't playing drums then. Man that cat could play solid. Great band, amazing drummer. RIP Matt, gone but never forgotten. Russ
Still an amazing song for me, I literally just float away listening to this classic... One of the best Aussie songs ever ...,
The album Short Note was a soundtrack for my friends and I, all turning 18 and 19 during its year of release. We lived in a large coal industry town, a pretty rough and hard-drinking town with a well-established drug culture, so finding distractions (from the more damaging distractions) was a bit of a blessing. This band and that 1st album was one such blessing.
Three or four years later, having pried myself away from my hometown, I got a call from a friend who'd also fled to Melbourne. Matt Finish were playing that night at the Westside Nitespot/Tarmac Hotel in Laverton - all of which I'd never heard of. I hadn't ventured outside of my St Kilda bubble apart from the odd trip to Richmond and the city. I always stayed east of the Westgate Bridge. But a few hours later we were off the bridge and in the west, the night lit up by the flares of the petrochemical plants all around us.
While I was waiting at the bar for a couple of pots I wondered whether we'd be leaving the venue without getting thumped. It was giving off a definite vibe. In fact it was almost like being back home. As it happened though, the night went without a hitch. The way I remember it, the band came on, took control of the room, held control, and won it over. As only a great rock 'n' roll band can do.
I still have the entry ticket from that night - the perforation remains unbroken because, I guess, I was having too much of a good time in the music to be bothered giving half the ticket to the woman in the servery for the 'supper provided' that the ticket said I was entitled to!
The mate that accompanied me to that gig, he died five years later. Cancer, rather than misadventure. And when I think of that night, or hear that album, and this song in particular, it reminds me of him, and the best parts of then.
Thank you.
@Tuffmouth you just described my life too ❤ I escaped and others didn’t. This song encapsulates freedom for me. Breaking out of a mould. Luckily I’ve made and had a great life. Hope you have too. 🎼🎸✌❤
@@jaynietee000 I had a few false starts (and occasionally was my own worse enemy), but yeah, all things considered its turned out pretty well. I really can't complain.
Thank you for your thoughtful note - it really made me smile, and I'm sincerely glad to hear your life became, and remains, a good one :)
@@lignitedaze I hear you. 😸Considering where we are today and current state of the world I’m glad I had the upbringing I did. Makes me grateful as I learned to survive and appreciate the little things. Glad you’re in a good place. Love that something like a song can connect two strangers. Take care. J ❤✌
@@jaynietee000 Yeah, it does leave a lot to be desired, this currently lopsided version of the world, but at least we still have music. It's certainly been a lifeline for me in the weird murk of 2020-22. As its been for most of my life, come to think of it!
I also love that a song can make an instant connection across the aether between a couple of strangers. The power of pop music, I guess. :-)
(An aside: I popped into the Bourke St JB today, and what fantastic, bright yellow object did I see at the front of the vinyl racks? The Short Note LP. And while I don't really need a 3rd copy myself, I was thrilled by the notion of someone else taking a punt on it and hearing it for the 1st time)
You take care too J
S ❤🎸
@@lignitedaze Ah..as an ex Melbourne girl I hear you. 😀 I just introduced a 26 year old to the Sunnyboys. 😀 She’s besotted and although their catalogue is small..it’s good. You’re so on point with ‘weird murk’. I could never have imagined the last two years but hopefully there’s light at the end of the tunnel (and it’s not the train coming to run us over 😀) I’ve created a calm happy bubble and try and block out the negative and focus on what we can do. There’s always tunes running in the background. ❤❤
Those who saw Live knew there was something special happening.
How lucky we were there to experience it
One of my favourite songs, such emotion coming through, used to make me feel like crying. Even though still a very young girl, I really picked up on a lot of sadness emanating through the radio. Thank You, to all the members of the band at the time who played on this track.
Brings tears to my eyes too. Expresses the sadness of a teenage girl so deeply.
Here here Matt Moffit, unfortunate that such a talent has passed. I bought this album in the 80's, but due recognition was not given to such heart felt music........
one of the best oz classic ...... takes me back to the summer of 80's
I see my errors now...darkness makes me smile, show me. Vale Matt.
Short Note is a very special song to me! I feel so complete when I listen to this beautiful tune! Very uplifting!
Same - does any one know the exact meaning of this song please?
this has been my favorite song since i first heard it (back in the day) . It's the ring tone on my phone and not to sound morbid, but also the song i picked for my funeral... when it's my time. Until then, i will listen to it as much as i can
Never get sick of listening to this song.
I don't know what it is about it, it brings up a sort of nostalgia of when I was young, growing up, going out. Back then, when I was younger, I didn't know what was ahead in my life, how was it going to turn out. Fom the look of the crowd in the filmclip, there was a different attitude back then
Just a short note
You'll find the key inside
There's no one home tonight
But come in anyway
The shallow sea
Calm, but not asleep
You're gonna wade into the deep
Tomorrow's years away
And now I know
Why darkness makes me smile
The night will have its child
And the wind will wind away
The wind will wind away
Until you're telling your friends we died
Laughing still
But the vessel that you fill
Will be your own
Wade into the deep
How much can you see,
Before we're all the same
Those words I wrote
I see my errors now
There's too much when and how
And you blow it anyway
The shallow sea
Calm, but not asleep
You're gonna wade into the deep
Tomorrow's years away
Every day, every day, every day
And now I know
Why darkness makes me smile
The night will have it's child
And we'll all just blow away
Just watch us blow away
Until you're telling your friends we died
Laughing still
But the vessel that you fill
Will be your own
Wade into the deep
How much can you see
Before we're all the same
Show me
Thankyou for Sharing The Beautiful, meaningful Lyrics. ✌
Such an typical Aussie classic with that laid back yet powerful feel. Absolutely Brilliant.
80s music is so expressive and beautiful... Glad I was there and continue to enjoy it
Will never grow old. Timeless. Strings felt weird , only knowing the original. Who cares. Would love a dollar for every time I've come home to knock myself out with this track. Thanks Mr Moffit, touched alot of younger people than you realise or care. Beautiful Music.
A lyrical masterpiece. Some great guitar and drums, too...
Great talent.. knew Matt from high school daze in a band Rum Jungle.... our band Bacchus Marsh and Rum Jungle would perform together on the same bill at dances across the Blue Mountains in the early 70s. R.I.P. Matt
short note one of my all time Oz classics.
Always loved this song. Great time in my life when this was around. I always thought it was Mark Hunter sang this. So sad that both these wonderful writers/singers are no longer with us. at least we'll always treasure such great songs they left for us to enjoy. Thanks guys. Love & Peace!!
rick grossman is the god of bass perfect feel and accompanliment
Doesn't get any better than this soulful Iconic Aussie rock ballad
A stunning song. I came acroos Matt Finish completely by accident as they were performing at Melbourne University around 1980/81 when I worked there. I couldn't tear myself away from their performance and went to see them any time they came to Melbourne. Matt Moffitt was so gorgeous, charismatic and such a good singer. I still listen to them on You tube on a regular basic.
Sad he is not with us now.
What a wonderful song from one of the most under-rated Australian performers since the 1960s.
Matt was a talent. One that was not recognised in his life. But will always be.
A GREAT song from the magic era of 79-83. Aussie pub rock at it's finest. ❤......
The Collector Tavern Parramatta 1987.. Miss ya mate!!
This brilliant song transports me back to year 1 in primary school and me trying to figure out why i love this song so much and now today as a 54 year old, I know exactly why!!!!!!!!!!!
Never get sick of hearing this song, so many memories of such a happy crazy time. R.I.P. Matt and our dear friend Beckky, seperate entities. I still visit Beck's grave out at Botany in the Jewish section and leave the odd flower. 10 days before her 21st birthday she was gone. Matt and the Finish were just majic to our ears.
1st heard this LIVE in 1980 at an Open Air Concert 3 Day Festival at Stroud, NSW called "Tanelorn". This song stopped me in my tracks. Amongst the thousands, the darkness & the dust, it was surreal hearing this beautiful ballad performed.
one of the best songs ever written...i cant belive i forgot it
Timeless,one of the great songs,I'm making sure my children hear this as it gets forgotten on radio.
Thank you for posting this... this song always moves me deeply..and I so loved Matt Moffitt's awesome presence...
Man I love this song. Takes me back to special times and places. RIP Matt Moffitt
Still Listen and Play Matt Finish in My Car and at Home just a brilliant band who were unique and Such Talents real Aussie Music should be acknowledged into the Hall Of Fame 100% saw Then at the tivoli in sydney many years ago RIP Matt
Could never go past this beautiful ballad
I just went to Bunnings at Belconnen, Canberra where this song was playing. Came home and spent about two hours searching for it and finally found it. Had no idea this was an Australian group and the lead singer died way before his time. Very sad to learn that. Beautiful song!
Tomorrows years away.
Always was.
Always will be.
Saw matt at sundowner hotel the song short note was aired for the first time two days prior. We fell in love with the song rushed to sundowner everyone is in the beer garden while me and my four Muso mates were the only ones in the room watching the band . They sat with us in the break and let us play a few songs at the beginning of there second set matt was a gentleman his greater songs were never recorded. we were there first fans
v2snider1 sundowner goer myself, great story my friend
R.I.P. "Stretch".... a great mate and a big fan of Matt Moffitt and passed away too young and in similar circumstances...
So many amazing memories from my teens watching this band at The Observer Hotel in The Rocks!
What a great song! ❤
I only discovered this song tonight. It's so good.
My youth is all I can think about when I hear this Matt Moffet was a genius and made an enormous impact on my then
One of the greatest songs ever composed that I have heard in my lifetime. Matt Moffitt was a truly remarkable songwriting genius. Long live his music for years to come.
It's so beautiful since it's based on a very pretty I IV major 7th chord combo of sublime simplicity first popularised Erik Satie in Gymnopédie No.1 in I believe 1901? Matt's twist on it was equally sublime with great lyrics and vocal delivery.
This song will always stay with me, I had seen Matt Finish live so many times in the 80s. Thanks so much for providing some of the soundtrack to my youth.
I still have my Matt Finish cassettes & listen to Short Note often.
One of the best songs ever...takes me back in time
Reminds me of roller skating on family holidays down the coast over Christmas. I fell in love with girls in summer and the memories and nostalgia this song creates in me is almost overwhelming! Vale Matt. What a song!!! 💔
love you Matt 🥰 this song is gold 🙌🏼 so many precious memories from my teens in the 90’s thank you & RIP 😢🙏🏼
I'm 69 and first saw Matt Finish in August '79 at The Stagedoor Tavern, then MF took up weekly occupancy in The Civic. In November 2JJ broadcast MF from The Civic. In December we hired them for $200 for a friend's 21st birthday at a day gig in North Sydney. She was over the moon.
I would also recommend contacting John Prior as he has the CDs and a DVD of the Musician's Club.
Awesome band and sadly missed.
I am nearly 66. Matt went to Springwood High School. He was in a band called Rum Jungle. Drummer Colin Booth (currently plays in (Audio Archive,). Katoomba High School. Warren McAlister guitarist Katoomba High School. My friend Bruce owned a record shop and he and Matt were friends. I was 14 when they played at our school dances. I still remember him looking just like he did in short note, just younger. He was so cute. Every time I here this song the hairs on my neck stand up and I feel very teary and sad
Takes me back to my earliest teens...early 80s...safer times ...beautiful Auzzie Music 💓
From a time long gone now.... but not forgotten.... we can only be thankful that Matt left this legacy for us to enjoy for the years to come... I feel privileged to have been there in the 80s as many of us do.... I'd give everything I have just to return to this time.
Its funny how 1 tiny thing can lead on to another.I don't remember what I thought at the time,but it made me think of Matt Finish.Had not heard the song for yonks.(a long time for those that don't understand).I bought the cassette back in the early 80's I absolutely loved this song.Decided to check it out here and what memories it stired..To dwsnare,I checked out wikipedia and yes unfortunately,Matt passed away in 2003,may he REST IN PEACE.Thankyou to all of Matt Finish for such a song.Stay Safe
Still one of the great Aussie classics
One of the best Australian songs ever….
Amazing song. Makes me think of friends and family and those big with us anymore. Hard not to tear up. Beautiful song.
Haven't heard this song for over 20 years... what great memories and what a fantastic song
Haven't heard Short Note for such a long time but watching it now blew me away now, as much as it did then ! To Debbie.K that certainly would have been an amazing moment and one to remember for ever ! Thankyou for sharing it with us
Thanks for posting and sharing this clip
Classic Australian Music
Matt's passing was a true loss to the Australian Music Industry
longive Matt Short note wherever in the universe ya star is shining Lea xx
RIP Matt. A classic song for those who know their music.
Thanks for posting. Feels like only a few years ago I saw the band for the first time live supporting U2 at Apollo Stadium, Adelaide.
What a great band......we used to see them every week ( Mon. nights?) in Sydney at some hotel (?)..always awesome gigs. Yep , as others have said --> RIP MM xxx
Was it Hopeton at Surry Hills
@@percyfree9831 Could have been ( we were always smashed....lol )
Brilliant!!!!!!
Can remember this song long ago! How good is it with todays tech. that all this past good music is now at our fingertips! Long live good music!
I'm 65 and still love listening to them saw them around the Sydney circuit in 80s real music.
One of the most beautiful-est songs ever written.
heartbreaker :( we can hold our heads high in the music world with gems like this.songs, they are eternal...better than headstones....we all get to hear this. how long will i be here? songs will be remembered, we will be forgotten m50
Matt Moffitt, another genius who died before his time. This song brings back so many memories. Love it.
What an amazing song sung by an amazing singer!!
Andrew always loved this song - it will always resonate with me. RIP my lovely brother.
what a great era for Aussie Rock. This is a Classic .... love it.
Matt FInish...... my mid teen years where intertwined with MF. The Sundowner Hotel on Friday night.... Lost my girlfriend the night we saw MF at the "Sunny"...thought i'd never be able to breathe again..all to the backdrop of these tunes being belted out. Now i sit and listen to this 30 years later. WOW. This tune stirs such emotion in me that i had to stop sit and think about life for the rest of the afternoon. So sad to hear about MM's passing.
@ Lucy Sorry for your loss- no words compensate
blackmuntu sundowner yes. Sorry about your girlfriend champ can relate
Always loved this!! 😊😍 Only heard it again last yr after many yrs. A guy I know just sang it today with a mate of his
Met Matt quite a few times...nice manners...great smile...had his own theories ...sadly missed...Icon artist
great tune... paints a nice picture
I've always loved this song...I don't remember the orchesration in the original so if it was added...brilliant...if it wasn't added then THANK GOD its here so I can relive the beauty any time I feel like it