From the echoing riffs of 'Hope For The Best' to the concluding vibes of 'Gina Works At Hearts', DZ Deathrays showcased their undeniable prowess at The Princess Theatre (12 August) that can only be described as electric.
A nostalgic space traditionally adorned with elegance, Brisbane's The Princess Theatre seemed an unexpected venue for a band that had its roots in raucous house parties.Yet, the contrast was both striking and complementary. The ornate walls seemed to reverberate with the pulsating sounds of the band, merging old-world elegance with modern punk chaos.
While the set list was heavily imbued with the tracks from their latest album, 'R.I.F.F', which proves their continuous evolution, DZ's didn't forget to toss in classics like 'Total Meltdown' and 'Shadow Walk', each eliciting deafening roars from the audience.
Image © Jared Hinz
For those familiar with the raw energy of their live performances, this night was no exception. 'Reflective Skull' and 'Ocean Exploder' unleashed a torrent of frenzied moshing, while 'Northern Lights' and 'Less Out Of Sync' allowed for those cathartic, collective sing-alongs.
The theatrics of the live show were an artistic display of lighting, shadows, and immersive sound. It felt almost as though one was inside the very heart of their creative process – raw, unfiltered, and unapologetically fierce.
The band's cohesion, after over a decade together, was palpable, their synchronicity transcending mere performance into an intimate conversation with their audience.
Image © Jared Hinz
What was particularly poignant was the underlying message of the tour – 'Remember It's For Fun'. In a time where the world often feels heavy and challenging, DZ Deathrays, with their vibrant energy and heady tunes, gave the audience a momentary escape.
They transported us back to the carefree days of wild house parties and unbridled youth, reminding us of the significance of unadulterated joy.
Support acts Press Club and dust deserve notable mention. Both brought a distinctive flavour to the night, setting an apt atmosphere of high-octane energy leading up to the main act.
In essence, this wasn't just a concert; it was an experience, a journey down the annals of punk history while simultaneously breaking barriers into uncharted territories.
Image © Jared Hinz
The heart of contemporary Australian music was beating fiercely at The Princess Theatre, and the pulse? It was unmistakably DZ Deathrays.
More photos from the show.
