Live Review: Steel Panther @ Hordern Pavilion, Sydney

Attending a Steel Panther concert is like stepping into a time machine and ending up back in the 80’s. While this was an era that I was unfortunately not privy to on account of not being born yet, I can only assume tonight is as close as you’re going to get in 2024. 

From the moment I walked in, the Hordern Pavilion was buzzing with excitement as fans eagerly awaited the arrival of Steel Panther, the glam metal band that redefined rock ‘n’ roll for a new generation.

The atmosphere was electric, filled with attendees adorned in leather jackets, spandex, and vibrant neon colours, all embodying the spirit of the '80s glam metal scene that Steel Panther so lovingly parodies. It almost looked like half the crowd had been extras on the set of Spinal Tap. As I found my place among fellow fans, it was clear that this night was going to be high energy, nostalgic, and full of laughs.

When the lights dimmed, and the opening chords of Eyes Of A Panther rang out, the audience erupted into cheers. Steel Panther took the stage with their signature flamboyance, instantly setting the tone for the evening. The infectious riff and catchy chorus had everyone singing along, reminding us why this band has remained a favourite among rock enthusiasts for years.

It also became quite apparent early on that Steel Panther, comprised of lead singer Michael Starr, guitarist Satchel, drummer Stix Zadinia, and bassist Spyder, the band really knows how to command a room. Formed in 2000 as a facetious homage to glam rock, the band initially started playing in venues along Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. Eventually, the idea gained some traction and exploded onto various continents. 

Throughout the night, it became somewhat of a frustration that Steel Panther's musicianship is often overshadowed by their humour. They are undeniably talented. Satchel showcased his virtuosity with jaw-dropping solos that left the audience truly in awe. His technical skill, combined with his charismatic stage presence, was a real highlight of the performance. 

Spyder, one of the band's most recent additions, added a playful flair, often stopping mid-song to strike a pose for the audience, eliciting roars of laughter. Meanwhile, Stix Zadinia kept the beat with precision, driving the energy of each song and playing the role of the unintelligent drummer all too convincingly. 

Michael Starr, the vocalist, also effortlessly connected with the crowd. His powerful voice and engaging presence made it feel like he was performing just for us. Between songs, his witty banter and playful ribbing of bandmates kept the atmosphere light and entertaining, making the audience feel like they were part of an inside joke.

The setlist was a carefully curated mix of fan favourites and newer tracks, showcasing Steel Panther’s evolution while remaining true to their glam metal roots. An early highlight was the oriental-sounding Asian Hooker, to which the band invited an eager Asian fan up from the audience for the band to jive on. The fan embraced the rockers with open arms, something I realised you must do at a Steel Panther concert. 

What truly sets Steel Panther apart is their ability to blend music with humour. Each band member embodies an exaggerated persona, paying homage to glam rock icons while also poking fun at them. The humour was cheeky and often risqué, keeping the audience on their toes and biting their lips. 

Later, the band invited a plethora of girls from the audience to dance with them on stage. Rhythmically gliding around like go-go dancers from the 80s, the band members were quite literally drowning in women. The band then jumped into their track 17 Girls In A Row, which delivered plenty of laughs with its playful lyrics. 

While they finished off their set with Party All Day (Fuck All Night), I looked around the room. The smiles around the room were as omnipresent as a drink in hand. This, I thought, is what entertainment looks like.

When the band then launched into Gloryhole for the encore, the crowd erupted, and it was clear that we were all riding a high that would linger long after the final notes faded.

Reflecting on the evening, it struck me how Steel Panther manages to create a night filled with not just great music but also an unforgettable experience. They reminded us that rock ‘n’ roll is about joy, community, and not taking yourself too seriously.

As the lights dimmed and we began to exit the venue, I felt a sense of camaraderie with everyone around me. We had all shared something special—an exuberant celebration of rock that is quintessentially Steel Panther. 

While it might not be your classic rock and roll concert, it certainly is wildly entertaining. A night that I, and many others, will remember fondly, marked by laughter, camaraderie, and the exhilarating spirit of rock and roll.