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TROPHY EYES
+ Boston Manor + TOWNS
@ The Forum, Melbourne,
31st August 2024
(Live Review)

Review by Stephanie Tang

Photos (Hindley Street Music Hall, Adelaide, 30th August 2025) by Missy Smiley (@itsmissysnaps)

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Trophy Eyes / Photo – @itsmissysnaps

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August has been a huge month for Aussie pop punk, with a new band touring every week. Rounding out the month is Trophy Eyes at The Forum, Melbourne supported by Boston Manor and TOWNS.

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Towns / Photo – @itsmissysnaps

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TOWNS have made waves recently with their single “Birthdays”, supporting Between You and Me and now Trophy Eyes on a national tour. Gaining a small legion of supporters with their laid back grunge rock, there’s a fair few fans who have come out early to see them. The crowd is thick as they launch into “Birthdays” to much head nodding approval.

Chaotic, energetic and entertaining are some words which quickly come to mind watching TOWNS. Standing out as masters of their instruments, with distinguishable melody and vocal lines you can really engage with the music. They add flair to the performance with back and forth vocals between singer Valladares and drummer Steinert, slick guitar runs and Steinert even takes the spotlight leading vocals whilst still playing drums.

The guitar and backing track were a little loud at times causing a slight buzzing but this seemed to smooth out over the set.  They get points back for showcasing their instrumentals and letting their infectious melodies shine, as opposed to over laying with poppy electronic sound effects.

“Season 5 (Break My Fall)” was particularly fun with its jovial beat and Australiana garage rock sound. The audience also liked “Speak For Myself” jumping along to the punchy chorus, reminiscing the bright moments of youth, personal growth and chaos of life.

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Boston Manor / Photo – @itsmissysnaps

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After TOWNS we welcome back Blackpool lads Boston Manor, their last visit to Australia being just 2023. Oozing with attitude, the boys take the stage starting with “Container” a recently released single which much of the crowd got around. Sounding sharp, clean and smooth like a prestigious vodka, Boston Manor follows up with a delectably danceable track “Floodlights on the Square”.

Boston Manor delivered a dynamic show that highlighted their fusion of dance beats and heavy guitars. If “Heat Me Up” and “Sliding Doors” are any indication, their upcoming album “Sundiver” is sure to exemplify their penchant for blending pop punk’s raw energy with darker, more atmospheric elements. Their set oscillated between infectious, upbeat rhythms and brooding, intense moments, creating a captivating unpredictability that kept the mosh moshing.

The performance quality was equally impressive, with Boston Manor demonstrating tight musicianship and commanding stage presence. Despite being a support act, they maintained a relentless pace, minimising breaks to maximise their extensive setlist. Finishing with “Passenger” and “Foxglove”, Boston Manor ended a strong showcase of their musicianship. Speaking with fans following the performance, there was a wish for deeper cuts from their discography, suggesting that even with tonight’s well-rounded set, the band’s extensive catalogue holds more treasures for one to explore.

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Trophy Eyes / Photo – @itsmissysnaps

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Onto to the main event Trophy Eyes, these guys know how to make an entrance. Opera music, soaring through columned archways throughout the theatre, and blinding flash lights like a Hollywood set, which really should have come with a warning, they appear.

Nearly a year since their last Australian shows, tonight would be the first time many tracks from their latest album “Suicide and Sunshine”, is heard live by home fans. Having had nearly a year to absorb the album, fans clearly found it a hit with the speed the floor was filling up.

Known for their dark, nuanced lyrics Trophy Eyes ignited a powerful emotional fireball during their set at The Forum in Melbourne, particularly when they performed fan favourites like “Friday Forever” and “Choke”. The sheer intensity and volume of the band’s delivery, combined with the crowd’s fervent participation, created an electric atmosphere brimming with shared passion. Judging by the volume the crowd sang along to “American Dream”, every chapter of the band’s discography resonates with different fans.

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Trophy Eyes / Photo – @itsmissysnaps

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The nostalgic charge that surged through the audience when older tracks “Chlorine” and “Heaven Sent” were played was palpable. It was as if a burst of adrenaline was shot through their veins, reviving cherished memories and amplifying the crowd’s enthusiasm. The band’s skilful blend of introspective lyricism with powerful, anthemic melodies especially so in “My Inheritance” has created a space where fans can confront their challenges and find solace in music.

Trophy Eyes delivered a compelling set that masterfully balanced nostalgia with fresh material, keeping the audience thoroughly engaged throughout the show. By alternating between fan-favourites from earlier albums and new tracks from their latest release, they created a dynamic flow that appealed to both long-time supporters and newcomers. The setlist, which included new hits like “Blue Eyed Boy” and “People Like You,” scattering older songs in between before reverting to songs from the new album ensured that there was something for everyone. This approach not only kept the crowd’s energy levels high but also fuelled the wild, relentless mosh pit.

The only criticism was the set ended too abruptly. The hour set came to an end much too quick, fans could have kept channelling their emotions and intensity into a cathartic, chaotic celebration all night. Alas a stunningly solid effort from the Trophy Eyes camp.

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Trophy Eyes / Photo – @itsmissysnaps

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Check out the gallery from Hindley Street Music Hall, Adelaide, 30th August 2025 by Missy Smiley (@itsmissysnaps) HERE

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Trophy Eyes / Photo – @itsmissysnaps

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Follow TROPHY EYES
Website – Instagram – Facebook 

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Trophy Eyes / Photo – @itsmissysnaps

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Press Release 16th April 2024 (below) HERE

TROPHY EYES
announce
Australian Headline Tour 2024
with special guests
BOSTON MANOR & TOWNS

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AMNPLIFY – DB