Hey guys, I got something on my mind…
It is Middle Kids and their stellar performance at The Gov on Saturday night.
Under the light of the full moon, we gathered in our droves to hear the Sydneysiders showcase their new album Faith Crisis Pt. 1. But first, Queensland singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Mia Wray entertained us with a brief set.
Over thirty minutes, Wray shared a series of songs highlighting a robust musical prowess and a vibrant personality. The low-tempo set accentuated her stunning vocals, sincere lyrics, and remarkable musicianship. She was highly engaging, entertaining, and moreish. By the time Hannah Joy (vocals/ guitar), Tim Fitz (bass), and Harry Day (drums), with guest guitarist Miles, came out, we were warmed up and raring to go.
The two opening tracks from Faith Crisis Pt. 1 also opened the show. The rockier Petition and poppier Dramamine, with its delicious melody, had everyone singing and dancing fervently. It set the scene for the following eighty minutes and was a sign of things to come.
Your Love continued with the dreamy alt-pop sentiments and vulnerable lyrics Middle Kids are known for – ‘Sometimes I wanna give up on this love/ But then I hear you call,’ we contemplatively sang in unison. The group intoning carried over into The Blessings. As did the realisation that Middle Kids know how to drop a beguiling chorus.
The phone cameras came out for old-skool classics R U 4 Me? and Mistake, a wonderful up-tempo pairing mid-set.
The atmosphere was electric by this stage. Joy capitalised on the moment. ‘We always love coming to Adelaide so much,’ she gushed. She then launched into a humorous anecdote about our local delicacy of fruit in chocolate. As we cheered for our infamous Fruchocs, the band gleefully proclaimed us ‘sickos’.
This facetious jesting allowed for a reset. The low-tempo Bad Neighbour followed, highlighting Joy’s exquisite vocal range. Sound issues minorly marred Go to Sleep on Me but were resolved by the first of many show highlights, Philosophy and deep cut, Old River.
Your Side, Forever was another new album promotion. As was All in My Head, a breathtaking solo by Joy on keys.
For the uninitiated, it couldn’t get much better than this, but we knew the best was yet to come. Highlands, Edge of Town, Bootleg Firecracker, and Stacking Chairs had us elated. Notwithstanding the pyrotechnics (yes, pyrotechnics!) during Bootleg Firecracker, everyone was in a gleeful frenzy singing along.
The bliss continued through the encore of Cellophane (Brain), Never Start, and Bend. There were people on shoulders, hearts brimming with emotions. With a final burst of pyrotechnics, Middle Kids left the stage to rapturous applause.
Middle Kids are known for their musically masterful expressions. Their songs capture emotions that exalt but ultimately lift you higher. This translated stunningly to the stage last night in what was a truly beautiful performance.
Live Review By Anita Kertes