ARTISTS: HALESTORM. SKINDRED, AND RELIQA
VENUE: THE PRINCESS THEATRE, BRISBANE
DATE: 26TH MARCH 2024
PHOTOGRAPHER: CHARLYN CAMERON
REVIEWER: CHARLYN CAMERON
HEADLINER: HALESTORM
SUPPORTS: SKINDRED AND RELIQA
DATE: MARCH 26TH 2024
REVIEWER: CHARLYN CAMERON
PHOTOGRAPHER CHARLYN CAMERON
A Night of Rock and Resilience: The Princess Theatre Experience
On March 26th, 2024, the iconic Princess Theatre was transformed into an electrifying hub of energy and passion as three heavyweight names in rock music—Reliqa, Skindred, and Grammy Award winners Halestorm—took the stage for an unforgettable night.
A true architectural masterpiece, the Princess Theatre provided the perfect backdrop for a concert that would resonate in the hearts and minds of attendees long after the last chord was struck.
The evening kicked off with Reliqa, led by the mesmerizing Monique Pym. With an operatic vocal prowess that captivated the audience, Pym and her bandmates—brothers Miles on bass and Benjamin on drums—formed a dynamic trio that set the tone for the night.
Their seamless coordination and raw talent shone through in every performance, making it clear that Reliqa was a band to watch. The crowd was entranced, and as Pym’s stunning vocals soared, the atmosphere in the theatre became electric.
As the night progressed, Skindred took center stage, with frontman Benji Webbe commanding attention. Known for his charismatic presence, Webbe didn’t just perform; he engaged the audience, teaching them how to do the Newport Helicopter, a signature move that had everyone participating in unison.
Opening with A track from their latest album, ’Smile,’ Skindred immediately had the crowd on their feet, especially with the infectious energy of “That’s My Jam,” which saw the fans take control of the performance, singing along passionately. The moment that followed was equally memorable as the band celebrated bassist Daniel Pugsley’s birthday with a cake brought onstage after the song “Rat Race.” This display of camaraderie and joy exemplified the spirit of the rock community, where musicians and fans alike celebrate life together.
Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: Halestorm. With Lzzy Hale stalking the stage like a commanding force of nature, she greeted the audience with a powerful “Welcome to the rock show, Brisbane!” Her fierce presence set the stage for an emotional rollercoaster, and the band launched into “Heart of Novocain,” a track that tore at the heartstrings of every listener present.
The raw emotion poured into the music was palpable, leaving no one untouched by the performance. Behind the drums, Arejay Hale showcased his incredible talent, often regarded as a “freak of nature” for his dynamic drumming style. Joel Hottinger, though he humbly downplayed his guitar hero status, dazzled the audience with his skill, delivering riffs that resonated throughout the theatre. Halestorm closed their set with the powerful anthem “The Steeple,” leaving the audience in awe. Despite whispers among some attendees regarding Lzzy Hale’s vocal performance, the truth remained that her talent was unparalleled. Many could only wish to possess the vocal prowess that she so effortlessly displayed that night. The Princess Theatre witnessed not just a concert, but a celebration of rock music’s enduring spirit and the incredible connection it fosters between artists and fans.
In conclusion, the March 26th concert at the Princess Theatre was more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of music to unite and uplift. With Reliqa, Skindred, and Halestorm igniting the stage, the night became an unforgettable experience, showcasing the brilliance of each band while reminding all in attendance of the resilience and passion that rock music embodies. As the final notes echoed through the theatre, it was clear that this was a night that would remain etched in the memories of those fortunate enough to be a part of it.
