Live Review: Flume, Vince Staples

19 December 2016 | 5:45 pm | Jonty Czuchwicki

"Flume's recorded music stands on a transcendent tier."

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Flume has grown and progressed as a producer over the years on a mammoth journey to superstardom. From small beginnings to playing Coachella, his hard work has seen him produce two bold albums and now everyone knows who Flume is.

Vince Staples' performance was dynamite. You could tell he was eager to get back to Australia and he certainly delivered on arrival. Compared to when he first performed in Adelaide, on a much smaller stage, the impressive production values of Adelaide Entertainment Centre made for an audio-sensory experience. Staples' vision is immediately captivating. His tone and energy complement the style of production; heavy reverberating bass and unpredictable delivery matching a caustic attitude. Tracks such as Blue Suede, Norf Norf and With You's Ghost, which he featured on, were highlights. The minimal stage set-up saw archival footage and clips from his music videos playing on a screen behind Staples.

Flume's live show had a lot going on, from the three-dimensional light show to the vast array of lasers and guest appearances from Vince Staples and Kucka. Throughout the show's extensive duration, there were arresting spectacles both onstage and within the crowd. Amid tracks such as Holdin On, Smoke & Retribution, Never Be Like You and his remix of Lorde's Tennis Court there were plenty of bangers to go 'round. Flume has stated in interviews that he doesn't exactly DJ per se, using Ableton to run his tracks while garnishing them with samples and live drum pads. Adelaide was the final date of a 100-show world tour. Flume's recorded music stands on a transcendent tier. Those with a critical mind want to see the live show match the level of finesse in Flume's production.