With a reputation as one of the most exciting prospects in the Australian indie scene, reggae-rock WA outfit South Summit arrived in Melbourne for a night full of energy.
The crowd was treated to an incredible start as two artists performed early in the night (14 November).
The opener was Local the Neighbour, who kicked proceedings off with a vibey set full of tracks from their 2024 LP 'Valley Pt.2'. While Wollongong's Cheeky Leash followed suit in trademark spirited fashion.
With the unfortunate cancellation of Amyl And The Sniffers' Fed Square performance, many people arrived at 170 Russell to purchase tickets at the door. Suddenly a mass of music lovers had filled the floor as South Summit began to enter the stage.
Kicking it off with 'Exceptional', the rockers performed a selection of songs off their 2024 album 'The Bliss'.
South Summit at Factory Theatre (Sydney) on 15 November, 2025 - image © Abbey Carter
Reminiscent of other coastal Australian bands, elements of reggae and hip- op were intertwined in each song. This fusion sound has become synonymous with bands of their ilk, yet South Summit have provided their own fresh and original take.
As interactive with the crowd as ever, lead singer Isaiah Rueben signalled for fans to clap and wave in unison. His vocals flowed along with the guitar as they went through fan favourites and newer tracks.
Groovy jamming turned to gentle strumming towards the middle of the set, as songs such as 'We Are The Lions' (performed acoustically) had the crowd slowly swaying in approval.
Band members took time to say thank you to their Melbourne fans, letting them know how much they enjoy playing in the city and how excited they are to return.
The boys finished off their main set list with raucous rendition of 2021's 'River Days', their biggest song to date. A gripping guitar solo by Fynn Samorali had members of the crowd roaring in approval as the song came to an end.
South Summit at Factory Theatre (Sydney) on 15 November, 2025 - image © Abbey Carter
The boys returned to the stage for a warmly received encore, in which they performed a cover of The Police's 'Roxanne'. The song is a perfect match for their funky sing-along style, each member bringing their own flavour to a certified classic.
Their talent and professionalism, coupled with a youthful exuberance that has hooked young fans from the start, is giving the band an exciting reputation. Part of a growing wave of Gen Z indie acts in Australia, South Summit head into festival season with more hype than ever.
