The Rubens at the Enmore Theatre 24/5/13 - Live Review

One of two supporting acts, Bloods appeared on stage wholly enthusiastically. Perhaps more enthusiastic than their crowd. Sixties surf pop-esque melodies were gritty albeit balanced when combined with simplistic and bubbly lyrics; simplistic in that they were repetitive and easy to remember. However, at the same time, very easy to forget. The loud and jangly vocal harmonies between the lead guitarist and bassist made for a cute garage pop vibe (despite their drummer being wholly uninvolved in their chemistry); but rather than being felt by the audience, such a vibe floated right through them. Walk The Moon could be mistaken for the headlining act, as their almost overwhelming stage presence enveloped the crowd into a state of adoration. Their interactions with their audience were so effusive that they seemed choreographed; as if in a musical number in a film where everyone happens to know the dance. This energetic and illuminating stagecraft complimented their synth infused indie pop, aided by a clean and sturdy bass tone to be felt in the chest. The lead vocalist’s timbre was well-rounded and youthful, as was their overall performance. A David Bowie cover - ‘Let’s Dance’ - with its post-disco sounds truly allowed the crowd to “warm up”. Yes, the band served the purpose of a support act (by far), but are so worthy and so capable of filling a headline spot.

Nearing nine months since the release of the release of their eponymous debut, The Rubens graced the stage confidently, yet still with an air of coyness. The sold out Enmore was all-knowing of every “ooh” and “aah” in each song, as they swayed along to seductive guitar lines and clapped feverishly to the thud of every note that damn bass drum did hit. The Rubens, they are sultry, come-hither. Casual and suave with their instruments. Charming the bras off of the all ages crowd (very literally); – “This looks like a twelve year old’s learner bra.” remarked Sam Margin, frontman, as girls swooned.”Keep ‘em on.” The attendees were treated to the entirety of the 2012 album: crooning vocals, howling organ lines and bombastic drums; rubbing nicely beside the wrenchingly full tone achieved by dirty southern guitar riffs; exactly transferred to the live stage, as if smothered in whiskey. We were treated also to the inclusion of both a cover and a new song in the setlist; respectively ‘The Seed’ by The Roots, and a song demonstrating that they might not be departing from the sonic likes of their previous endeavours called ‘Cut Me Loose’; equally as soulful as the rest of the set. The past year or so has been a whimsical for The Rubens; and they obviously are in love with what they are doing. Australia is falling in love with them, too. Sydney is enthralled.

Reviewed by Jessica Syed.

#therubens #walkthemoon #bloods #enmoretheatre #jessicasyed