Live Review: Miike Snow, Fabulous Diamonds

“Hi, we are Fabulous Diamonds” are the first words uttered on stage tonight, as the local two-piece take their position on stage at the gloomy Palace Theatre. Given that these are the only comprehensible words mentioned throughout the pair's 30-minute set, you could call it a highlight. From thereon in, however, it's a relatively dull set. Things don't get past second gear, and as their set progresses it is surprising that they have been chosen to support the much more upbeat Miike Snow. Between sets, the lights are focused on the giant disco ball hanging from the ceiling. An impressive globe, it – along with the throng of people still making their way through the door – is in for a treat tonight. There's a sense of excitement even though it's a Tuesday night, because at $80 a ticket, the crowd know that there's one hell of a show on the cards.

Whoever is in charge of the smoke machine has their work cut out for them, filling the expansive venue with smoke in the lead-up to 10pm, by which time the place is packed. And as Swedish three-piece Miike Snow take to the stage, it's virtually impossible to see them. Accompanied by an extra two touring members, they have barely set up behind their keyboards before the strobe lights cut through the smoke-filled air, building to crescendo after crescendo. The Wave is a huge set highlight, a smashing live tune that is delivered with precision. Bavarian #1 (Say You Will) showcases American lead singer Andrew Wyatt's angelic voice, and Burial is just another killer tune in a quality set. Even with only a passing knowledge of Miike Snow's back catalogue, there are enough familiar songs to have anyone singing along. Sylvia is the pinnacle, a seven-minute house banger, while softer moment, God Help This Divorce, is a tender change of pace.

After the briefest of intermissions, the band returns for a couple of final songs, climaxing with the predictable yet perfect Animal. It proves a huge singalong, and with every audience member belting the song's chorus, it's a great way to finish an awesome set.