Live Review: The Angels

With a barrage of faithful fans proudly flashing band shirts and an enigmatic new frontman, The Angels had a resounding impact on Factory Theatre last night as part of their A-Z tour.

Equipped with accredited guitarists John and Rick Brewster pouring out driving riffs and screaming harmonic solos, The Angels still live up to their name as Australian rock legends. Hits like No Secrets and Take A Long Line had the predominantly older crowd rocking around cheering every word, as they no doubt have many times before. However, since before the tragic death of former vocalist Doc Neeson last year, the band has adopted Dave Gleeson from The Screaming Jets as their lead vocalist. Where Neeson thrived in stage presence and flamboyant dance moves Gleeson did not let down. From forward rolls and high kicks to putting his jacket on backwards and smashing his water bottle on his arm, Gleeson had it all, giving out non-stop energy from start to finish. A particular highlight came unexpectedly from the Brewster brothers as they continued to solo melodically for two minutes after a song had ended, the lights dying and Rick’s warped amp effects kicking in. A short intermission followed the 13th song before they kicked off the second half of the alphabet. A small speech and toast was made to Doc by both band members and the audience, having been a driving force that led the band to national success, sorely missed by all. Band anthem and chorus question Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again was asked at the beginning and end the set to which the audience enthusiastically and undoubtedly knew how to respond. A cover of ZZ Top’s Le Grange followed, effectively ending the alphabet and an overall great concert.