Middle KidsMiddle Kids have been busy in recent months, travelling the world and appearing on US TV programs such as Jimmy Kimmel Live and CBS This Morning, so it's great to have them back Down Under to finally headline their own show in Adelaide (having been here a few months ago supporting Gang Of Youths, as well as Paul Kelly previously).
Fat Controller was packed. Support act Ruby Fields clearly had a lot of her own fans present and quite a few of them sang along to many of her songs. With clever lyrics and catchy riffs, she's an impressive young talent and definitely one to watch.
Middle Kids took to the stage soon after. Amusingly, a barely noticeable glitch in the electronic signage made it look like the band's name was 'Muddle' Kids. Kicking off with current single Mistake, it was clear that this band is a class act that is well-rehearsed from rigorous touring. The crowd sang along right from the start.
This was our first opportunity to hear material from the band's just-released debut album Lost Friends and we were not disappointed with the results (although more familiar material, like Your Love from their debut self-titled EP, received bigger responses). The band complimented us on our fervour, with singer Hannah Joy joking that she understands why there's a barrier in front of the stage. Her husband, bass player Tim Fitz, hailed a male member of the crowd who was displaying extreme levels of excitement.
Previously a trio, the band is now rounded out with the addition of a lead guitarist, whose playing is sublime, but it is Joy's distinctive voice and charisma that seal the deal with this band.
The Edge Of Town (shoulda-been-a-big-hit) received a huge reaction, with crowd-surfing and swooning, which prompted drummer Harry Day to joke that the band should move to Adelaide. Their cover of Blink 182's All The Small Things was another enthusiatic singalong, with the crowd gleefully shouting back "work sucks!" on cue.
The sombre Doing It Right was dedicated to Scott Hutchison from Scottish band Frightened Rabbit, since news of his tragic passing hit the headlines this afternoon.
The hour-long set included an encore of Lost Friends, the subdued title track from Middle Kids' new album and a somewhat odd choice to finish off what was an otherwise energetic show.
If you are suffering from depression or need assistance, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636.
