HEADLINER: SiM
SUPPORTS: REVOID AND BANKS ARCADE
DATE: SEPTEMBER 12TH 2024
VENUE: THE PRINCESS THEATRE
REVIWER: CHARLYN CAMERON
PHOTOGRAPHER: CHARLYN CAMERON
Japan’s alt-metal sensation SiM has made an indelible mark on the Australian music scene with their first headline tour, bringing a whirlwind of energy and sound to The Princess Theatre in Brisbane. This tour comes on the heels of the unfortunate closure of The Zoo, one of Brisbane’s cherished music venues, which adds a poignant layer to this live experience. As fans gathered outside, the anticipation rippled through the air, with a line stretching around the corner, a testament to SiM’s growing popularity and the thirst for live music in the wake of recent challenges.
Opening the night, Brisbane’s own metalcore quartet, Revoid, set the stage ablaze with their intense single “Burn With Me.” It was a powerful introduction that captivated both old fans and newcomers alike, instantly drawing the audience into their fierce sound. The energy remained high as they transitioned into “Let You In,” where frontman Dale Dudeson showcased a different side of the band with his softer, contemplative vocals. The set peaked with their latest release, “Euphoria,” featuring guttural screams and raw emotion that left the crowd roaring for more.
Next up was Banks Arcade, who kicked off their set with “Faded AF” from their recent EP. Despite a brief seven-song set, they made each moment count, heavily featuring tracks from their “Death 2” EP, while also throwing in fan favorites from “A Muse.” The highlight came when Joshua O’Donnell rallied the audience with an inspiring message: “If you fall down, you get back up.” The energy reached a crescendo during their closing track, “Roulette,” a rap-metal powerhouse that ignited the first wall of death of the night showcasing the crowd’s fervor and connection to the music.
The anticipation reached a fever pitch when SiM took the stage, greeted by roars of excitement from the audience. They launched into a high-octane set, starting with “Under The Tree” and “Playdead,” quickly establishing a commanding presence. By the time they hit “Hide and Seek,” the band was firing on all cylinders, and the infectious energy spilled into the crowd, prompting a spirited mosh pit during “Blah Blah Blah.” The synergy between SiM and their fans was palpable, as everyone danced, jumped, and sang in unison, creating a euphoric atmosphere. One of the standout moments of the night was “The Rumbling,” which elicited an electric response from the audience.
Vocalist MAH took a moment to connect with the crowd, teasing future festival appearances, possibly at Good Things 2025, which felt like a tantalizing promise of more to come. The set concluded with “Do The Dance,” but not before the band returned for an encore that included “Killing Me” and the anthemic “f.a.i.t.h.” Going into the concert with limited knowledge of SiM’s music, I was completely unprepared for the sonic spectrum they delivered.
Their performance was a rich tapestry of growls, breakdowns, electro-metal elements, ska, punk, and reggae influences, creating a unique sound that captivated every listener in the venue. The night was not just a concert; it was an immersive experience that resonated long after the final notes faded. In reflection, SiM’s headlining show at The Princess Theatre was not only a celebration of their music but also a reminder of the power of live performances to bring people together. The combination of remarkable talent and unwavering energy made for an unforgettable night—one that I would highly recommend to anyone seeking a thrilling live music experience.
As the lights dimmed and the crowd dispersed, the echoes of the night lingered, leaving us all eagerly anticipating SiM’s next appearance in Brisbane.
Setlist:
Under The Tree / Playdead / Kiss of Death / Hide and Seek / TxHxC / Blah Blah Blah / Gunshots / Devil In Your Heart / Baseball Bat / B.B.T / The Rumbling / Red / Do The Dance
Encore:
Killing Me / f.a.i.t.h
