Has there ever been a more enchanting egomaniac in a diamanté-covered gimp mask? Kanye West definitely tested this theory at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Monday 15th September.
Entering the stage to Darth Vader's ‘Imperial March’, it certainly set the tone for something out of this galaxy. “Anyone not handicapped or in a wheelchair, stand the f*ck up!” he demanded of the crowd. In reference to his recent comments at his Sydney concert, he added: “If you can not prove to me that you are in a wheelchair, then you need to be standing” as the place was literally bouncing for the beginning of ‘Good Life’.
© Ben KnightAnd he was very much in the present, untouchable among his adoring 'clique' striking an even balance between rap and ranting — and no one does that quite like Kanye.
In Australia for his first tour since 2010, the man who claims to be “bigger than U2” delivered a carefully crafted set list. ‘New Slaves’, ‘Runaway’, ‘Black Skinhead’ and ‘Cold’ (with a solid sample of Foreigners 'Cold As Ice' as an intro) were among the opening numbers, with Yeezy’s earlier hits such as ‘Gold Digger’, ‘Stronger’ and even ‘All Falls Down’ also receiving an airing.
Ranting breaks (of which there were progressively more as the show progressed) included attacks on the media, fake mother f*ckers, the haters and (did I mention?) the media. He was extremely open and that's what you should expect from a “normal, married Christian man”.
On stage it was simply Kanye and his DJ, who also acted as back-up singer on occasion — and it was all that was needed. Whether talking or rapping he can undoubtedly captivate an audience.
© Ben KnightThere was a real church-like feel to the whole show — sort of like a southern gospel sermon with a good measure of Cirque du Soleil and autotune. It was his soul on stage. “Every single motherf*cking line was written from my gut ... it came from my gut and said what I felt, almost like I was too scared to lie.”
Written by Ryan McGrory
In all his arrogance, boldness and genius, it was Kanye.
