Live Review: The Angels, Mi-Sex

Bald heads and goatees set the scene as the night opened with '80s synth-rock band Mi-Sex. Fronted by a Captain Jack Sparrow-esque Steve Balbi, the ex-Noiseworks frontman commanded the swinging microphone and stage. The crowd was keen and eager as Mi-Sex played a tight 12-song set littered with old favourites including Blue Day and Space Race, and the new single My Sex Your Sex.

Balbi amped up the crowd like a carnival ringmaster in preparation for the main act, while plugging their new release. To finish off Mi-Sex played hit Computer Games to rapturous enjoyment, as the oldies off and on stage sung along.

The Angels take to the stage and it's immediately apparent that their hard rock'n'roll reputation will not take a dent tonight. Now fronted by veteran rocker Dave Gleeson (ex-Screaming Jets), the band still have that air of distinct authenticity; even after losing such a charismatic lead singer in Doc Neeson. Original members and brothers Rick and John Brewster hold down lead and rhythm, with John's son Sam filling in on bass while Nick Norton sits up behind the drums. Gleeson, a born frontman, rips into classics Talk The Talk and After The Rain. The energy on the stage is palpable as Gleeson jumps, screams and dances his way into a thrashing, sweat-drenched, curly haired frenzy.

Mid-set both Gleeson and John Brewster talk to the crowd, dedicating songs to both past members Neeson and Chris Bailey. There is a genuine affection show by new and old members as they kick into more classics - Shadow Boxer and the Australian crowd anthem Am I Ever Gonna See You Face Again? - Insert appropriate response here.

The Angels return with an encore of Mr Damage followed by Can't Shake It, sharing the stage with Mi-Sex keyboardist Murray Burns as he solos to the crowds delight. With a packed house fully charged and looking to have thoroughly enjoyed the night, their local band returned and everyone sated, The Angels thank the crowd and sign off for another memorable gig.

Though Gleeson is without doubt a fine frontman, and the Brewster brothers hold The Angels firmly at the pinnacle of "OZ Rock" legends status, for both bands there are still twinges of emotion. At times a forced double-take is required when those classic anthems begin and present company look around for the ghosts of members passed on.