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KARNIVOOL
@ Bar On The Hill,
Newcastle, NSW,
24th July, 2025
(Live Review)

Review and photos by Shaquira Hobbs (@shaquira.hobbs)

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Photo – @shaquira.hobbs

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It’s been a long time between drinks for Karnivool fans, but last night at Bar on the Hill, the Perth prog-rock titans reminded us exactly why they hold such a legendary status in Australia’s alternative scene.

From the moment the band stepped on stage, the room was electric. The crowd full of millennials united in devotion erupted as the opening notes of cut through the venue like a signal flare. Karnivool don’t just play their music they craft an experience, and last night was no exception.

Frontman Ian Kenny delivered a masterclass in vocal control and presence, gliding seamlessly between soaring cleans and emotionally guttural hooks. The synergy between Drew Goddard and Mark Hosking on guitars was pure precision, laying down thick, textured layers of sound that danced with Jon Stockman’s seismic basslines and Steve Judd’s faultless drumming.

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Photo – @shaquira.hobbs

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The lighting design was moody and immersive rich blues, piercing whites, and dramatic shadows layered the band in a dreamlike atmosphere. The only downfall was, the crowd from the middle back could not see anything.

The setlist was a beautifully curated blend of fan favourites and deeper cuts, including “Shutterspeed,” “All I Know,” and “New Day.” But it was the spine-tingling delivery of “Themata” and the hauntingly hypnotic “Alpha Omega” that truly stopped time. The lighting and sound mix supported the band’s dynamics without overpowering the intricate, layered soundscape Karnivool is known for.

And let’s not forget the merch easily one of the best setups we’ve seen in a while. From fresh designs and high-quality prints to thoughtful sizing and variety, it was clear they put care into every item. It was too good to resist I ended up grabbing a piece myself. Worth every cent.

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Photo – @shaquira.hobbs

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What stood out the most wasn’t just Karnivool’s technical prowess, but their ability to connect with the crowd on a deeply emotional level. There were moments of intensity, introspection, and pure catharsis and Newcastle lapped up every second.

As the final note rang out, the crowd was left in awed silence before breaking into thunderous applause. Karnivool didn’t just deliver a gig they delivered an experience that will echo in the minds of everyone there for a long time.

Karnivool at Bar on the Hill was a reminder that some bands don’t just withstand time they define it. A flawless, emotionally charged performance that left Newcastle buzzing.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)

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Photo – @shaquira.hobbs

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Check out Shaquira Hobbs’ (@shaquira.hobbs) full gallery of this event HERE

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Photo – @shaquira.hobbs

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Follow KARNIVOOL
Website – Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

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Photo – @shaquira.hobbs

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Press Release 27th June 2025 (below) HERE

KARNIVOOL
drop first new single
in four years

“DRONE”
Out Now

Via Cymatic Records / Sony Music

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AMNPLIFY – DB