Live Review: Gang of Youths, Ruby Fields, Fountaineers

Wrapping up the penultimate leg of their Australian tour and fresh from their mesmerising Like A Version, Gang of Youths played a sold out concert at the Thebarton Theatre. Without a doubt, the band were able to deliver a stunning performance showcasing their sheer level of experience and maturity.

Bendigo's Fountaineers were first up, greeting the audience members trickling in and out between the bar. Playing from their recent debut LP Greater City, Greater Love the three-piece brooded over heartbreaks to set a sombre mood in the room. Nonetheless, triple j Unearthed alumni Ruby Fields was on hand to glam up the stage with her infectious rock/pop anthems. I Want appeared to be the cure to all ails, setting the room alight with its memorable chorus.

Gang of Youths' set began with an acknowledgement to the traditional custodians of the land before transitioning into one of the shimmering instrumental interludes from their new album Go Farther In Lightness. Sadly, this instrumental piece, filled with glistening orchestral strings, was played pre-recorded rather than live. It's understandable that they couldn't bring an entire orchestra with them on tour, but it was a bit disappointing.

From this elusive and mysterious opening, the remainder of the concert followed a very satisfying ebb and flow. From roaring belter What Can I Do If The Fire Goes Out?, to soft, timid ballads like Knuckles White Dry, Gang Of Youth seamlessly transitioned between stark contrasting atmospheres — a feat that was often aided by a glimmering light show. It was a feast for all senses.

Frontman David Le'aupepe simply exudes charisma — whether reciting soliloquies in angelic lighting or diving off stage and surfing among the crowd. The performance of their breakout hit Magnolia instantly transported the room to their infamous Splendour In The Grass set in 2016; even if you weren't there originally, this was a decent substitute.

Gang Of Youths have always been heavily focused on their message — and this event was no exception. There were earnest (if overly simplified) messages scattered throughout the concert — often relating to themes such as "life is short", standing up to cynical critics, and the all-important 'sticking the finger to The Man'. Furthermore, their lyrics have always been bold and insightful, and the concert atmosphere only amplified their poignancy. It was easy just to get lost in the lyrics, which made the songs seem to last forever. The band demonstrated their awareness of some much broader social issues and it was brilliant to see a down-to-earth outfit promote the importance of self-awareness and positive change.

Overall, the entire concert was an emotive and cathartic out-of-body experience. Gang Of Youths drag you kicking and screaming, in a good way, on their soul-stirring rollercoaster of weird highs and touching lows.