Project Description
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ELECTRIC CALLBOY
+ Self Deception + Future Static
@ PICA, Melbourne,
29th November 2023
(Live Review)Review and photos by Michael Gow (@alchemi_glow_music_phot)
Before the night began, the line to get in was already stretching almost down the road and around the corner, an hour before the concert. As the doors opened, the crowd filed in. Since it was an outdoor event, food trucks and bars were set up, allowing the audience to indulge in the offerings before the concert began. Many fans chose to skip the food and drinks, heading straight to the barrier to secure prime positions for Electric Callboy. The crowd, adorned in colourful tracksuits and, in a few cases, cosplay outfits, added to the vibrant atmosphere. The day started with rain, but as the event kicked off, the rain subsided, a fortunate turn for the crowd, despite the venue being mostly covered.
As the crowd gathered moments before the opening act, Future Static, took the stage, there was a palpable air of anticipation. As a fan of Future Static, I’ve seen them multiple times, and with their debut album, Liminality, released just days ago, I expected a remarkable show. Future Static delivered an outstanding performance, treating the audience to crowd-pleasing tracks such as “Chemical Lobotomy,” “Venenosa,” “Roach Queen,” and “The Hourglass” — all fantastic songs from their debut album. Their cover of Daddy Yankee’s “Gasolina” added a unique touch. The set concluded with the oldest track on the list, “Dead-end,” prompting the crowd to mosh and cheer throughout the performance. It set a high energy tone for the night and primed the audience for what was to come. Future Static wrapped up their set with a photo with the ecstatic crowd.
Up next were the Swedish modern rockers, Self-Deception, who unleashed blistering riffs and heavy drum beats. It didn’t take long for them to ignite the crowd with tracks from their catalogue, including “Scandinavian Dream,” “Fight Fire with Gasoline,” “Smoke You Out,” and “Hell & Back,” along with a fantastic cover of Roxette’s “The Look.” The energy was palpable, with clapping, cheering, and moshing spreading across the audience. The guitarist even jumped into the pit, playing closer to the crowd, before the singer playfully urged him back on stage to complete his solo. Self-Deception concluded their set with a crowd photo, leaving the audience eager for their return to Australia.
Now, the much-anticipated moment had arrived as headliners Electric Callboy were moments away from taking the stage. This being their first headline tour, and with sold-out shows across the country, they were greeted with open arms by their devoted fans. After their standout performance at last year’s Good Things festivals, anticipation had been building for their return to Australia for a full set. The outdoor venue at PICA in the heart of Port Melbourne set the stage for a night to remember.
As Electric Callboy took the stage, the spectacle began with costume changes, wigs, and a dazzling light show. Launching into their first song, “Tekkno Train” (video below), confetti cannons fired into the crowd, creating a breathtaking spectacle. They followed up with “MC Thunder II (Dancing like a Ninja),” sparking crowd surfing, screams, and cheers from their adoring fans. The band expressed their gratitude and excitement, showcasing both old and new songs to make their first Australian headline tour unforgettable. The crowd, showing immense appreciation, had sold out venue after venue across the country.
A highlight of the set was their performance of “Castrop X Spandau,” a German lyric song, during which the crowd energetically clapped along, regardless of understanding the lyrics. The lighting display and visual presentation added to the overall experience. The band shared their joy at fulfilling a dream by touring Australia, and a mid-set speech preceded the powerful song “Arrow of Love.” Drummer David-Karl Friedrich took center stage with a drum solo to Darude’s “Sandstorm,” earning thunderous applause.
Transitioning to one of their big hits, “Hypa Hypa,” the stage saw various costume changes, including colourful tracksuit tops and pants with accompanying wigs. The live delivery of screams and clean vocals showcased Electric Callboy’s prowess, with the energy and enthusiasm on stage captivating the audience. Surprisingly, Eric Vanlerbleghe from I Prevail made a special appearance on stage during “Hypa Hypa,” adding an unexpected twist.
The set then took an unfamiliar turn as Electric Callboy presented an acoustic set, beginning with a short cover of “Let It Go” from the movie Frozen. They smoothly transitioned into a Backstreet Boys cover of “I Want It That Way,” prompting the crowd to sing along. The band humorously declared, “You’re all 10% German now” before launching into “MC Thunder.” The interaction between the band and the crowd reached a peak as they engaged in a call-and-response, creating a memorable moment. A short visual presentation preceded the encore, featuring the songs “Pump It,” “Mind-Reader,” and the final song of the night, another hit, “We Got the Moves.” Streamers descended from the roof, marking the end of the song.
But that wasn’t the end of the night. The band continued on for an acapella version of “We Got the Moves,” inviting the crowd to sing along, creating a beautiful and intimate moment. The night concluded with a final crowd photo, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of those who attended. It was, without a doubt, a fantastic night of rock and metal that will be cherished by all who were there.
Check out Michael Gow’s (@alchemi_glow_music_phot) full gallery of this event HERE
Follow ELECTRIC CALLBOY
Facebook – Tik Tok – Instagram – TwitterPress Release 6th March 2023 (below) HERE
ELECTRIC CALLBOY
upgrade Adelaide showMelbourne, Sydney &
Brisbane shows sold out!WATCH THE TEKKNO TRAIN VIDEO
AMNPLIFY – DB