Role Model, Medium Build @ The Gov, Adelaide 11/2/2025

As the scorching day faded into a sweltering night, the heat continued to rise at The Gov.

Here for the final Australian show of his No Place Like Tour World Tour, Role Model ensured Tuesday night’s show was one for the books.

American singer-songwriter Medium Build (Nicholas Carpenter) kicked things off with a solid performance. His soulful, introspective style and smooth vocals set a mellow yet captivating mood. His emotionally charged set was filled with heartfelt lyrics. Together with the stripped-back instrumentation, it provided a perfect lead-in to the intensity that was about to strike.

Even before Role Model (Tucker Harrington Pillsbury) bounded on stage, the mostly female Gen Z crowd screamed in anticipation. The sold-out crowd’s excitement then surged like a current when the red lights illuminated the stage. As Writing’s On The Wall from Kansas Anymore (2024) erupted, so did they.

Role Model immediately set the tone with his signature mix of alt-indie pop and earnest lyrics. A uniquely elevated pub choir experience followed with a sprinkling of emotional depth delivery and steady engagement.

The set list was a synthesis of tracks from Kansas Anymore and fan favourites from Rx (2022) and various EPs. It was well received. So much so, from the first song to the last, the crowd sang along word perfect at decibels that occasionally surpassed the band.

Despite being undoubtedly lethargic from an Australasian tour at the peak of a summer heatwave, the quality of Role Model’s vocals did not falter. They sliced through the room, crisp yet soaked in emotion.

From the pop sentiments of Look At That Woman, self-loathing of Scumbag to the tender ache of Oh, Gemini and a little more time, he delivered each note with a raw intensity that transformed lyrical vulnerability into sheer power.

Superglue offered a poppy upswing in tempo, while The Dinner and Frances proved particularly popular. The ‘S’ songs’ block—Slut Era Interlude, Somebody Else (The 1975), Sally, and Slipfast—demonstrated versatility through the juxtaposition of varied genres. Sally was a particularly charming bubble gum pop inclusion.

Role Model’s authenticity was displayed as he interacted with the crowd between songs. He shared anecdotes and expressed gratitude for everyone’s support. He sparked a feeling of unity that seemed to ripple through the crowd.

The tempo dropped again with that’s just how it goes and Compromise. The latter produced a lovely atmospheric ambience that permeated throughout. While blind and forever&more flipped that on its head and had everyone dancing into the final stretch.

Deeply Still In Love wrapped up the encore-less, sweaty and emotional ride.

As people wandered back into the heat of the night, adrenalin coursing through their veins, hearts were abuzz. It was a pretty good Tuesday night in little ol’ Radelaide thanks to Role Model.

Live Review By Anita Kertes