Gang Of YouthsAs Zefereli entered the Metro Theatre stage they immediately pleased the audience with their chill, indie-pop vibes, providing the perfect start for an energetic and fiery night of performances. They seemed at their best when harmonising, male and female voices complementing each other and defining the simple melody lines.
The crowd began to fill at a record rate as I Know Leopard graced the stage with their charming enthusiasm and enthralling musical talent. Their music was strong and polished, their dynamics everchanging and interesting as they incorporated instruments like the violin and tambourine through their set. Between the tunes their transitions were impressive as they smoothly moved from song to song, leaving the ghost of the previous song in the echo of the synth.
Anticipation was thick before Sydney's indie-rock sensations Gang Of Youths took to the stage under glowing bright lights, using their endless energy to play an immensely vibrant and lively set. Vocalist David Le'aupepe possesses an unbelievably broad range. As the tunes went from full band to acoustic he was able to adjust his vocals from guttural to angelic, each move effortless and magnetic. Their repetitive riffs were attractive as the boys jumped and danced around keeping the audience entertained while maintaining eye contact and focus. When the lyrics spilt from Le'aupepe's mouth they became almost conversational and personal, especially in Poison Drum, from their recent album, The Positions, bridging the gap between writer and listener. As they played their popular tune Magnolia, it became obvious their sound improved in the live context, falsetto perfect, musicianship strong and thumping, the stage seemingly a second home for them. Knuckles White Dry, a song about a breakdown on a drive home, when one no longer needs to seem composed, was the definite standout of the night. The carnivalesque piano chords and the raw vocal combined to create a heartfelt and tragic tale. To end, Gang Of Youths delivered an intense second encore, the audience wild, clapping and dancing along. The band was humble and thankful to their hometown audience, leaving the stage to the awe of dark, shadowed faces in the crowd, looking up adoringly. As we entered the foyer lyrics to Radioface were being sung: "We are infinite now."
