Live Review: Hightime, Stolen Youth, Flangipanis, Stabitha & The Knifey Wifeys, PBCBs

When it comes to opening up a show with a party atmosphere, Adelaide's PBCBs are arguably the perfect outfit to do it. A ska-indie-punk ensemble featuring trumpet, two drummers, pillowcase outfits and a festive attitude, what they bring is infectious and remarkable. Frontman Todd Fogarty is immeasurably talented, magnetic and maniacal to the point of insanity - the whole band is. Their show flawless and a pleasure to witness. Combining the genius of The Libertines with the jubilant sound of The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, it is no wonder this group has amassed a solid fanbase in such a short time. The entire performance was impeccable, especially with the inclusions of Rihanna's Umbrella and The Isley Brothers' Shout.

Stabbitha & The Knifey Wifeys brought in the heavy element with their brand of screamo punk and in the process stunned the crowd into hypnotic adoration. With elements of La Dispute, Xerxes and You & I, there is an immeasurable amount of power in what these women deliver musically. Vocalist Sass Williams was at the top of her game and impeccably supported by every member of the group, especially on their cover of Gloria Gaynor's I Will Survive. At this point the show had gathered pivotal momentum.

Brisbane's Flangipanis instantly made their mark in the best way possible. They are brilliantly brash party enthusiasts and dress wearers. Channelling the sounds and behaviour (to an extent) of NOFX and even early Foo Fighters with a big injection of punk, the quartet were magnetic and incalculably fun. Getting Shit For Free, Phone Keys Smokes Wallet, Double Standards and One More Drink were stunning in a near-offensive way and the four-piece's presentation, although morally questionable in a sense, was stunning. Flangipanis certainly won over Enigma Bar with their set.

After two long years, Adelaide's favourite punk quintet Stolen Youth made their long-awaited return to the stage and it was, in a word, faultless. There was no evidence of rustiness or hesitation; the five-piece launched into their adored hardcore punk with trademark intensity and the audience returned it with ferocity. Gears In The Machine and Strong But Few were monstrous in delivery, with each member playing at an elite level. Guitarist Jesse Coulter was more machine than man and vocalist Sean McLoughlin was fierce and clearly elated to be back performing live again. Their return to the stage was magnificent.

Another amazing Adelaide outfit who have thankfully returned from hiatus, slightly ska slightly reggae and a lot of punk rock quartet Hightime propelled into a sitar-style introduction before their impassioned punk blasted over this capacity crowd. There was dancing, there was crowd-surfing, there were deafening singalongs and, most importantly, there was infinite smiling from both band and audience alike. Vocalist Nina McCann was a bundle of energy and her band's positivity was contagious beyond quantification. It must be said that McCann's outlook, strength, acceptance and support of everything she believes in and promotes was inspiring and the world is better thanks to her presence. This spirit translated beautifully in the outfit's music, especially in the closing track In Dust that caused a stage invasion from attendees.

As a welcome back party for two of Adelaide's most treasured bands, this event was certainly memorable.