Immersed in the lively spirit of Good Things Festival, attendees were swept away by a vibrant blend of music and camaraderie, creating lasting memories and a symphony of shared bliss.
In the midst of the blistering heat enveloping the Brisbane Showgrounds (3 December), fans undeterred by the scorching sun eagerly assembled early, forming organised queues for coveted merchandise, refreshing drinks, and mouth-watering snacks.Their collective excitement set the stage for a day filled with eager anticipation, ready to embrace the musical odyssey that lay ahead.
Image © Clea-marie Thorne
The kickoff on stage 5 witnessed none other than The Local Romance, triumphant winners of the Battle of the Bands – an energetic force hailing from Brisbane, radiating boundless energy and undeniable talent.
From their first chord, this musical powerhouse effortlessly magnetised a captivated crowd, setting the tone for a day destined for enchanting musical moments.
As we weaved between stages, we passed stage 1, which had become the epicentre of anticipation for the appearance of the much-loved PVRIS. Overcoming a setback that led to the cancellation of their Sydney set, the resilient band showcased their indomitable spirit.
The amassed crowd, fervently engaged in moshing and rhythmic swaying, stood testament to the unwavering charisma of the beloved PVRIS, delivering an exceptional performance.
Meanwhile, stage 4 pulsed with the magnetic energy of The Plot In You. Employing masterful engagement techniques, the band orchestrated an enraptured audience, inducing vigorous moshing and cheering on both novice and seasoned crowd surfers. The aftermath left every participant bathed in a potent mixture of excitement and sweat – a demonstration of their immersive experience.
Image © Clea-marie Thorne
At stage 2, Enter Shikari held the attention of a mesmerised court, captivating hearts and ears alike. Lead singer Rou Reynolds, a true showman, scaled every reachable surface, immersing the crowd in intimate close-up action.
A standout moment included Rou intricately weaving the microphone cable around a camera before vaulting onto the barrier, transcending the conventional boundaries of a stage performance.
Stage 3 unfolded as a showcase of vibrant energy and unity with Stand Atlantic. Amid smoke machines and pulsating beats, lead vocalist Bonnie Fraser rallied the crowd with a heartfelt call to action, encouraging attendees to embrace those around them. The invitation to unity reverberated through the assembled audience, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and good music.
A detour to the Good Things Garage revealed the gem that is Queensland band Pandamic. Even casual observers stumbling upon this performance could sense a treat ion the offering. Devoted fans transformed the surroundings into an impromptu mosh pit wrestling ring, complete with an improvised belt, injecting an unexpected yet delightful twist into the festival experience.
Self-proclaimed heartbreakers took the limelight on stage 1 as Slowly Slowly infused the atmosphere with a potent blend of energy, passion, and love. A surprise appearance by Stand Atlantic's Bonnie Fraser elevated the set, as Ben Stewart tugged at heartstrings with poignant reflections on the birth of his daughter – a heartfelt moment that resonated with the audience.
Returning to stage 5, the densely packed crowd for Australian heavyweights Ocean Sleeper underscored why they had earned their prestigious festival spots. From the first chord to the resounding final note, the collective head-banging in rhythmic harmony served as an affirmation of the band's undeniable prowess.
No room for hesitation existed as Royal And The Serpent enthusiasts flocked to stage 5 for a glimpse of the show-stopping American singer-songwriter and her band. The spectacle during one of their most chaotic hits, 'EAT SPIT!', was nothing short of mesmerising, with the crowd mirroring the high-octane energy emanating from the stage.
Magnolia Park - image © Clea-marie Thorne
As the sun dipped beneath the horizon, signalling the approaching twilight of Good Things, Magnolia Park entered stage 5. Their introductory performance, complete with a head-turning sequence referencing both their 'Halloween' album and their latest release 'Baku's Revenge', set the stage for one of the most chaotic and memorable crowds stage 5 had see all day.
Transitioning to stage 2, a resounding wall of cheers greeted Limp Bizkit as they assumed the spotlight for one of the most anticipated shows of the evening. The undeniable talent onstage triggered an eruption of cheers as the familiar strains of 'Break Stuff' reverberated through the air.
Chants of the lyrics echoed throughout the area, creating a collective vocal tapestry. A heart-warming moment ensued as Fred Durst, the band's lead singer, spotted a sign in the crowd reading 'Can this Grandma get a hug?'. In a gesture that transcended the stage, Fred brought the beaming grandmother onto the stage, embracing her warmly. The crowd, unfazed by inhibitions, shed shirts in every direction, prompting Fred to interject with playful humour, "that's illegal, you know?".
From the onset of Fall Out Boy's rendition of 'We Didn't Start the Fire', the crowd erupted in unison, engaging in a joyous sing-along. The set unfolded as a spectacular display, featuring giant props, Pete Wentz's flame-throwing bass, and a palpable theatrical energy.
Fall Out Boy - image © Clea-marie Thorne
This performance was the epitome of a true spectacle, a vibrant fusion of poetry, a disappearing act, eye-catching visuals, and an abundance of energy emanating from Patrick Stump and his band, leaving an indelible mark on the collective memory of Good Things Festival.
The echoes of each chord resonated not just in the hearts of the attendees, but in the narrative of a festival day that transcended the ordinary, becoming an unforgettable chapter in the book of shared musical experiences.
As the night unfolded and the last notes echoed across the Brisbane Showgrounds, every individual departed with hearts full and bodies aglow. The collective excitement stemming from ten hours of undeniably incredible music lingered in the air, each note and lyric etched into the memories of the attendees.
The festival's conclusion was marked not only by the echoes of the music but also by the subtle touch of sunburn – a tangible reminder of the shared experience under the vast skies of Brisbane.
More photos from the festival.
