"We're not here to f... around," announced Kasabian.
Serious audience participation reached record highs on a particularly rowdy Tuesday Night (19 March) at Brisbane's The Fortitude Music Hall.Firstly, big ups to supports Friends Of Friends and Blossom who got us properly warmed up. I had a jolly dance with Blossom. They oozed a good time with the kitsch choreographed dance moves.
Before Kasabian was cast upon the stage, the act began with pre-recorded, unrelated pop songs from The Angels and House Of Pain. That didn't really land for me. I didn't really see or feel the point, it felt tacky. However, I could be overthinking it and should just have fun with it and enjoy it.
Kasabian blasts onto stage. Immediately, Serge Pizzorno cannot stand still. The entire stage's square footage was utilised (and then some), vaulting and sprinting side to side, even jumping into the security pit.
Kasabian - image © Clea-marie Thorne
The rest of the band didn't stand still either. Maximum movement was made in their respective spaces. Serge's unrelenting encouragement and aura kept the crowd motivated for the show's entirety. Truly uncommon and incredible especially on a Tuesday night.
Serge continued to amp the crowd. He requested people on others' shoulders. A sea of bodies rose above the rest for 'You're In Love With A Psycho'. Ten-foot human totem poles swayed and Serge congratulated Brisbane. 'Italian Horror' began; Serge stood on the edge of the bass speakers, pointed the microphone at the audience and asked 'Ooh oh, oh ooh?" To which, the crowd responded, "Oooh oh, oh OOH!"
It then came to the performance of 'Stevie' (a personal favourite). The guitar tech handed Serge his guitar, filling his hands and locking him to the mic stand. This brief lack of moment from Serge felt tense, it felt explosive. This really suited the mood of the song.
Then came a proper encore. Energy somehow became ever higher. Serge commanded us to get low on the floor (even those up the back at the bar). On countdown, we all jumped as high as basketballers to 'L.S.F.'.
For the grand finale of 'Fire', Serge disappears. . . only to reappear on the balcony level; centre back of the venue singing above the crowd. He returns to the stage for the final rounds of the chorus, the crowd singing "I'm on fireeeeeeee!" so loud it took me a moment to realise Serge wasn't even singing, but jumping in encouragement.
Kasabian - image © Clea-marie Thorne
Energy continued to flow after the show's finish. The band exited out of view toward backstage. Serge chanted a capella on the microphone, summoning an audience choir. Even in Kasabian's absence, the chanting continued as we marched out of the venue.
Typically, energy falls off towards the tail end of a show but not tonight. I had a bloody good time. Kasabian really did us and their music justice. I loved the inclusiveness of the party vibe. Til next time mates.
- written by Kalem Horn
More photos from the concert.
