Project Description
MIDDLE KIDS
@ The Triffid
03/04/19
(Live Review)
Reviewer: Alexandra Ainsworth
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Since coming out with debut album Lost Friends, Sydney’s Middle Kids have been riding the wave of success for the past year. Their ever-growing popularity, couple with the release of a new track and two sold out night’s at Brisbane’s Triffid, give us the impression that the reign of Middle Kids is set to continue.
The Triffid’s stage is adorned with strings of white faux flowers. They hint towards a romanticism reflected within Middle Kid’s repertoire, and as the night wears on, it’s hard not to feel enamoured by the Sydney three. Starting the night somewhat ironically with ‘Never Start‘ instantly impresses the Wednesday crowd, with the song sung by fans word for word at an equally as impressive volume. It’s clear that the love for Lost Friends has only continued to grow since it’s release, the tracks all proving to be fan favourites as punters valiantly throw their arms in the air in total surrender to the sounds.
The lyricisms of Middle Kids are sharp and insightful, but never feel convoluted or hard to grasp. They’re brazen and bold in a relatable way – which I’m not just saying because I’m a middle kid myself. Lead singer Hannah Joy holds her own amongst the noise, her range of vocals moving from near-whispers to triumphant soars in a matter of songs. Aided by her band, who help propel the whole movement through sound that ebbs and flows to mimic lyrics and increase drama, the whole set up is tight-knit and seamless in delivery.
The set list has a smooth blend of new and old, but it’s one of the more recent tracks, ‘Don’t Be Hiding‘, that is a clear stand out. It’s a song that can get lost within the record, but seeing Joy perform her words live give them an extra layer of depth that feels almost too raw to be privy to. There is a undeniable heart and authenticity that runs deep within what Middle Kids create, and ‘Don’t Be Hiding‘ is the shining example of why Middle Kids are continually winning crowds over.
Newer release ‘Real Thing‘ from their upcoming mini album, New Songs For Old Problems, is a welcome addition to the more known parts of the catalogue. Despite having only been out a month, it feels just as well-loved as the rest of this evening’s offerings. It marks all the relevant Middle Kids checkboxes: building vocals, pondering lyrics, tangles of electric guitar and drums building up before dropping off for a final vocal show off.
The night ends with an encore of ‘Mistake‘. It’s a song bursting with energy, and both the band and crowd act accordingly. Guitars are swung as punters throw their limbs out in a total frenzy of movement. The venue turns into the type of chaos that is almost touching to watch, and it being the first night of the tour, is a moment that I have no doubt Middle Kids will be having over and over again.
Follow MIDDLE KIDS
Website // Facebook // Instagram
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