Brisbane’s Young Lions could be the next chapter in strength of progression for Australian anthem bands.Their collective talent oozes honesty and addiction. Not only do they “work a crowd” – they ensure entertainment. As enthralling as The Getaway Plan are, or even You Me At Six (UK); the next chapter exists here. “Burn The Money” might just be that next anthem. The delivery of “Before The Storm” inspires any music aficionado with their loud vs. quiet formula; a utilised recipe but one constantly appreciated to a global scale. They faithfully delivered “Destroy Me” and “Better World” so convincingly that this writer is reassured of our Australian talent, especially when vocalist Zach Britt decided that offstage, this scribe was worth his personal attention.
Long Island’s Taking Back Sunday arguably redefined a genre; alt-rock meets emotional and self-deprecating art that collectively made infinite humans realise worldwide that it is welcome to express hidden emotion and it is worth applause. Their album Tell All Your Friends initially changed punk perception and Louder Now thankfully took it that one step further.
Adelaide experienced both chapters in full; for almost (lost members included) 20 years vocalist Adam Lazzara, guitarist/vocalist John Nolan, drummer Mark O’Connell and bassist Shaun Cooper expressed a sincerity that is beyond appreciated (in some shape or form). As eloquent as it sounds, this event didn’t have “that” elegance; ultimately it is a punk show. However, find a crowd screaming the words to “Cute Without The E” with as much conviction; seek an audience who know the words better to “MakeDamnSure” and on this night Australia won’t.
It was far from perfect, if anything Taking Back Sunday are renowned and adored for their imperfection; so are most souls. Nevertheless, Mr. Lazzaro’s mic swings and eccentric personality, John Nolan’s expressive screams and their collaborative communication will last for more than their two decades together – it is something the world should and will treasure. This could be the “Divine Intervention” or arguably the “Error: Operator”. Who Knows? Maybe “This Photograph Is Proof”.
