The Amazons – Friday 24th October
Invited| Review by Robyn Watson
There is something about walking back through the doors of NX that seems so nostalgic. The perfect venue for music of all genres but especially loud, instrument led bands who can just shine here. I have seen many bands here throughout the years and always know the sound is just going to be spot on – and I was certainly not wrong!
The Amazons decided to take a little break of three years before coming back with their newest offering in terms of an album back in May – 21st Century Fiction. Reviews describe it as a strong, cinematic album that blends alternative, hard rock, and alternative country.The album was praised for its dynamic sound and after hearing it, nearly in its entirety last night, I couldn’t agree more. The band entitled their new tour with the album name but assured us it would be adapted for the stage.
As a red shrouded mist covered the stage the band exploded onto the stage with the haunting vocals from lead man himself, Matt Thomson singing Joe Had a Gun. Simple and effortless with just the piano and bass to add atmosphere. The full sound kicked in and left the hairs on my arms standing up. The wall of sound hit me and I felt the bass drum thunder through my chest. Their sound just enveloped the whole room from front to back.
One thing I noted almost instantly was the immediate change in presence on stage. It feels like The Amazons have finally crafted their final form. Confident, secure and a real change in their sound. They have matured so much not only in their appearance but their sound too. They also had the incredibly welcome addition of Ella McRobb on keys and vocals. Their whole performance quite honestly was just a jaw dropper from beginning to end especially as I have supported them for a long while. I felt proud to see how professional and put together the whole performance was.
The use of lighting across the stage was magical and really added to their well thought out performance. Throughout most of the new album, we are introduced to the ethereal and mesmerising vocals of Ella which pair in perfect harmony with Matt’s stunning voice. Last night, I couldn’t quite believe just how good they were live. Ella is hauntingly beautiful and really brings alive the songs with both her lead and backing vocals. Vocally, I feel as though The Amazons are incredibly underrated. Matt’s voice is silky smooth whether belting out those loud rocky tones or gently reaching the falsetto he had me astounded throughout the evening.
The Amazons really take their music seriously with three layered guitarists, a bassist, keyboard player and iconic drummer. The interlocking melodies the guitars played were harmonized to perfection and created an expansive and atmospheric vibe. Matt’s audience participation is still wonderful and he is not scared to share his thoughts and feelings on stage. The song ‘25’ was written when he was just a young 24 year old, mistaking cynicism for wisdom in his own words. Talking about how our generation have no backbone but after the last few years he realises his lyrics weren’t quite what he thought.
I just adored watching their fun on stage really vibing with the audience who were taking it all in. In the audience was the lead singer’s parents who are from Stanley which is so lovely to have that local link. He dedicated Georgia to his Dad who always said it should have been a single.
With each and every song came a different and unique sound pieced together to make such a wonderful performance to watch. My favourite of the evening had to be ‘Go All the Way’, which began with just Matt and Ella singing with the piano. He dedicated this to the support act of the evening, local lads The Pale White. It was velvety and delicate and quite honestly breathtaking. I just loved how they allowed themselves to be so open and vulnerable with these vocal performances throughout the night- something rock bands don’t often do. Such a wonderful change. This then led back into their gritty and explosive riffs that they are well known for.
After showcasing their brand new album they treated us to some classic hits with Mother, which is always a crowd pleaser. Although the audience was not jam packed it was filled with huge The Amazons fans with a sea of band t-shirts and people singing along to their hits. The atmosphere was something I could just bottle up and take with me. Everything I want to experience in a gig and more.
To end their set we got to see Wake Me Up which is such an anthemic song, perfect for any festival season. They came on for their encore to rapturous applause and performed a wonderful medley of their greatest hits.
Overall, I had the most amazing two hours in The Amazons’ heaven. I was amazed by their growth and projection and I am excited to see the big things coming for these guys. A perfectly crafted set with stunning vocals and the instruments blending seamlessly with punch and precision. What a night!