Review by Sibel Kutlucan
Thursday night got underway at 8pm when early punters began filling into the doors of the Sydney Metro. The darkened room was a hotbed of activity, buzzing conversation as indie fans alike milled around drinking beer and anticipating the first time visit of English indie rockers The Maccabees to Australia. The quintet who are visiting this autumn for the Groovin’ the Moo festival, has a local bunch of Aussie fans who are eager to welcome the boys to the country for an intimate sideshow.
Argentina, the first and only supporting act of the night was greeted warmly by early-comers. The Brisbane based indie act seemed to have a bit of difficulty with their first song, technical difficulties and possibly nerves got the better of them. Gladly, by the second song they had sorted out their problems and they delivered a really enjoyable sound. The vocals were fantastic, with songs “Bad Kids” and “Plastic Excuse” they definitely played to their strengths and let their softer indie side come through, focusing on delicate lyrics and a steady beat that wasn’t competing with the vocals. Argentina played with a lot of heart and have a bright future ahead of them.
The Maccabees took to the stage a little after 10pm with the now full room welcoming the boys. Cheers, whistles and claps greeted the five English lads and it was clear from their stylish hair-cuts down to their pointy oxfords that they were indie-rockers, hailing from the home of other indie heroes Arctic Monkeys and Bloc Party. They were confident, sassy and talented; it was obvious why they had such a large fan following here.
When lead vocalist Orlando Weeks sang the opening to hit “Feel the Follow” off their newest album Given to the Wild (released January 2012) the crowd was thrown into a frenzy. Weeks was hypnotic, with his intimacy and eerily sweet voice pulling you in. I felt myself swaying to the beat and whispering the lyrics softly, not wanting to miss a note. “Feel the Follow” was a favourite of the night, it was infectious and everyone in the room was right there invading the personal space that Weeks had created.
The Maccabees were passionate and their stage presence demanded attention. It’s clear why they were greeted so warmly by fans at the Sydney Metro on Thursday night and have been a keen addition to the Groovin’ the Moo line-up. They are unique, engaging and very talented. If you haven’t already seen one of their live shows or picked up an album, I suggest you do. Two thumbs up for an amazing show!
** Tour News: The Maccabees Australian Tour – May 2012