REVIEW: Bloc Party + Interpol - A Musical Spectacle
Words by Samuel Fudge
The duel headline show at the Riverstage featuring Bloc Party and Interpol was nothing short of a musical spectacle, uniting two iconic bands in a night that will be etched in the memories of the near-sellout crowd in Brisbane. The anticipation was palpable from the moment Newcastle's Dust took the stage, delivering a short yet impactful set that left a lasting impression on the eager audience.
Dust's performance was a testament to the band's talent, offering a glimpse into their evolving sound with tracks from their latest project, et cetera, etc. The audience, arriving early to catch Dust's set, was treated to a sonic journey that hinted at the band's potential to become a lasting name in the music scene. Their energy set the stage for the headliners, creating an atmosphere charged with excitement and anticipation.
As Bloc Party took the spotlight, frontman Kele Okereke's stage presence was nothing short of magnetic. The band delved into their extensive repertoire, offering a diverse selection of tracks that spanned their career, from the groundbreaking Silent Alarm to the more recent Alpha Games. Bloc Party's ability to seamlessly blend genres and deliver a performance that resonated with both longtime fans and newer listeners was a testament to their enduring relevance.
The infectious stage personality of Bloc Party reached its zenith during the performance of the anthemic "Helicopter," a track that ignited the crowd into a frenzy of energy and enthusiasm. It was a moment of collective celebration, a reminder of the band's ability to create timeless and unforgettable moments in a live setting.
Transitioning into the night's closing act, Interpol brought their signature moody tones and woozy guitar arrangements to the forefront. Frontman Paul Banks, not known for flamboyant stage antics, let the atmospheric nature of Interpol's music take center stage. The noir-like quality of their sound became the perfect punctuation to the evening, creating a captivating atmosphere that suited the hot Brisbane night.
In essence, the duel headline show at the Riverstage was a masterclass in musical diversity and performance artistry. From Dust's promising opening act to Bloc Party's genre-spanning set and Interpol's atmospheric grandeur, the night unfolded as a celebration of the rich tapestry of indie and post-punk music. It was more than a concert; it was an immersive experience that showcased the timeless appeal of these two iconic bands, leaving an indelible mark on all fortunate enough to be in attendance.