w/ CALIGULA’S HORSE + THORNHILL @ Northcote Theatre

Written by: Darcy Moore - Sense Music Media | Wednesday 19th October 2022

With its 100 year history it feels like a gosh-darn-shame that Northcote Theatre has been hidden in plain view for so long. It was my first time going there but, it won’t be my last. Sitting across the road for a beer ,we could hear the practice sets - further amplifying the anticipation of the show to come. And boy - did that show come.

Walking in to the theatre, the rain was really starting to pick up. Not the forecast but I felt bad for the guy holding the “Ticket Wanted” sign out the front. He clearly didn’t know it wasn’t sold out - it should have been. The Northcote Theatre may be my new favourite venue. Walking in was like a stand back in time. It’s rare to see and feel like I’m at a theatre with such history. The staff made jokes, they were friendly, the place was beautiful. Did, the bands hold up?… fucking oath they did.

As I made my way into the photo-pit, the energy in the room was a bit of a flat fish. Cut to the huge hit SNAP of the snare drum to enter the music and let people know things weren’t there to mess around. The air was sucked from the room. It was loaded. Dramatic. Perfect. We were stuck side and wild eyed. I have no words for how to describe it but - drop your beer and expect a show. As CALIGULA'S HORSE finished up, the room softened. Deep breaths. Deftones played through the hall, amping people up for what’s next.

As THORNHILL came on stage the rooms vibe snapped silent. With a cutthroat dance, the lead singer came on stage with a cat like energy. Bouncing around like a new born puppy. The band are SO tight. Jacob Charlton is beyond impressive with his vocals. I mean, BEYOND impressive. His arms hung straight and let his vocals do the work. As a singer in a past life, he makes me want to get back into it. Swinging the microphone with biting ease he surely adds himself into the list of iconic Australian metal singers. Clint Bodge, Ian Kenny, Jacob Charlton. What a line up. I’ll never miss another THORNHILL show.

As the gig started fading into the next, the lighting was being prepared. The mood of the crowd kept building and building. Further anticipating the icons. I was a little scared that the crowd was there to only see THORNHILL. I then saw a woman wearing an Imago t-shirt and all my fear was evaporated.

THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT came onto the stage with a roar from the crowd. A roar to stop time. It’s no secret that Clint’s vocals are never short of amazing. A fallen angel. The best in the business. The energy of the group was incredible. I’m still amazed at how people can head-bang and not fall off stage! The room slowly packed out and the arms were swinging high. The banter from the band was so funny and engaging. It will always be a plus 1 worthy when someone takes the time to talk to the audience, Clint certainly did that. You could tell they were just having so much fun. I know I certainly did.

I don’t know when I’ll get to see 3 incredible bands consecutively like that but gosh damn I’m glad I did. Please go see it - you will have no regrets.

Listen to the tour playlist while you check out the epic photo gallery by Darcy Moore below

THE SETLIST on Spotify