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GOOD THINGS FESTIVAL
@ Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne,
1st December 2023
(Live Review)

Review by Michael Gow

Photos (Brisbane) by Matt Young (@mattyoungpics)

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SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL, Good Things, Brisbane, December 2023 / Photo – @mattyoungpics

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The morning of the Good Things Festival presented a gloomy and overcast sky, casting doubts about a rain-soaked day ahead. However, the impending weather did little to dissuade the festival-goers. Southern Cross station’s Platform 14 was abuzz with eager attendees ready to embark on the day’s musical journey. Conversations filled the air, discussing the lineup, meeting points with friends, plans for the day, and, of course, strategies for food and drinks.

As the train pulled into Flemington racecourse, a small hiccup awaited the excited crowd. All gates were shut, temporarily confining everyone to the platform. A quick resolution saw a bypass gate open, unleashing a surge of anticipation as attendees raced towards the event gates. The atmosphere was now electric.

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FALL OUT BOY, Good Things, Brisbane, December 2023 / Photo – @mattyoungpics

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My first order of business upon entering was to fuel up for the day. I then went on to see The Plot in You, an American rock band on Stage Four, was my initial target. Devoted fans clamoured to the barrier for prime spots, while others strategically positioned themselves for an entire day of performances. The band’s entrance was preceded by a low droning noise, building excitement as they took the stage one by one. Hits like “Left Behind” and “Paradigm” resonated through the crowd. Vocalist Landon Tewers engaged the audience, igniting a surge of energy that culminated in exhilarating moments, including a call for crowd surfing and an attempt to break the Guinness Book of Records for the most crowd surfers.

Moving to Stage Three, Stand Atlantic emerged in matching green tracksuits, setting a lively tone. The Jurassic Park theme signalled the start of their performance, with the band’s energetic presence captivating the audience. A collaboration during “Pity Party” with Royal & the Serpent’s singer added a unique and memorable dimension to their set. Stand Atlantic left an indelible mark, expressing gratitude to Melbourne and Good Things Festival.

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LIMP BIZKIT, Good Things, Brisbane, December 2023 / Photo – @mattyoungpics

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Slaughter to Prevail, the Russian Deathcore heavyweights, immediately captivated with their heavy sound and striking visuals. Songs like “Baba Yaga” and “Viking” resonated powerfully, drawing a sizable and enthusiastic crowd. The impact was such that they could easily have commanded a main stage.

A detour to Stage 5 brought Tapestry’s post-hardcore sound to the forefront, leaving a strong impression. Returning to Slaughter to Prevail’s set, the band acknowledged the Australian audience’s support, reinforcing their prominence.

Make Them Suffer took the stage next, showcasing their prowess as Australian heavyweights. A brief detour to Stage 5 for Hanabie, a Japanese Metalcore sensation, revealed technical issues that, once resolved, allowed the band to shine. Unique in their Harajuku fashion, they offered a distinct contrast to their powerful metalcore sound.

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I PREVAIL, Good Things, Brisbane, December 2023 / Photo – @mattyoungpics

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Sepultura’s set on Stage 4 showcased tight performances, marked by an impressive guitar solo. The band acknowledged the significance of playing a festival down under, drawing a substantial crowd.

Corey Taylor’s solo project on Stage 2 presented a dynamic mix of Stone Sour, Slipknot, and solo songs. Engaging with the audience, Taylor showcased the strength of his band, culminating in a surprise cover of INXS’s “Don’t Change.”

Bullet for My Valentine, a long-anticipated act, delivered a thunderous performance on the main stage. Engaging with the crowd, they expressed gratitude for being back in Australia, creating memorable moments and ending with a high-energy finale.

After a break for food, the journey continued to Stage 666 where I checked it out briefly to see it featuring karaoke and a freakshow-style performance.

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COREY TAYLOR, Good Things, Brisbane, December 2023 / Photo – @mattyoungpics

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Returning to Stage 2, I Prevail’s blistering pace and crowd interactions demonstrated their live prowess. With energetic songs, audience engagement, and surprising covers, they left an unforgettable mark.

Devo’s appearance brought a quirky and entertaining interlude to the festival. Their eclectic costumes and hit song “Whip It” transformed the atmosphere, engaging the audience in a lively sing-along. Along with many other songs the crowd really got involved after they heard their hit song.

As the night approached, the stage was set for the final acts. Limp Bizkit, despite a momentary pause during their set from a medical episode of a crowd member during their cover of George Michaels ‘Faith’ which when they restarted it dedicated it to the fan, delivered a high-energy set with hits spanning their career. Crowd interaction and unexpected surprises, including a fan joining them on stage to sing, showcased Fred Durst’s commanding presence.

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BEHEMOTH, Good Things, Brisbane, December 2023 / Photo – @mattyoungpics

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The headliner, Fall Out Boy, took the stage amid a massive crowd. Despite initial departures after Limp Bizkit, the audience was soon captivated by an extensive set featuring hits, covers with a 24-song set, and impressive stage effects. Visuals, piano medleys, and a diverse song selection created a theatrical atmosphere, proving the band’s worthiness as headliners.

In retrospect, the Good Things Festival of 2023 will be remembered for its great music, diverse performances, and the collective experience of an enthusiastic crowd. Despite some regrets about sunscreen application, the festival-goers departed with cherished memories, reliving the day’s highlights on the journey back to the train station.

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PENNYWISE, Good Things, Brisbane, December 2023 / Photo – @mattyoungpics

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Check out Matt Young’s (@mattyoungpics) full gallery of the Brisbane event HERE

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Follow GOOD THINGS FESTIVAL
Website – Instagram – Facebook
Twitter – Tiktok

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SEPULTURA, Good Things, Brisbane, December 2023 / Photo – @mattyoungpics

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Press Release 19th November 2023 (below) HERE

GOOD THINGS FESTIVAL
welcomes
STAGE 666

Brand new stage
featuring
KARAOKE BAND,
CIRCUS PERFORMERS,
AM/PM DJS & more

And reveals
maps & timetables

BRISBANE SOLD OUT
limited tickets
left for
SYDNEY & MELBOURNE

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AMNPLIFY – DB