HEADLINER: THE CULT
SUPPORT: MAYATRIX AND THE PSYCHICS
DATE: 25/11/2024
VENUE: FORTITUDE MUSIC HALL, BRISBANE
REVIEWER: ANDREW TREADWELL
PHOTOGRAPHER: MERT TYSON PHOTOGRAPHY
British rock band, The Cult, as part of their much-anticipated 84-24 Tour, made their way to deliver their straight up no-nonsense rock show to a sold out Brisbane Crowd.
The night kicked off with an enchanting set by Mayatrix and The Psychics, led by the captivating Moana Mayatrix. Their sound can best be described as a rich tapestry woven from elements of rock, psychedelia, fantasy, and ceremonial ambiance. This eclectic blend served as the perfect prelude to The Cult’s electrifying performance, setting a tone of anticipation and excitement among the growing crowd.
As the crew member performed a traditional smudging ritual on stage, the energy in the room became palpable. The audience, filled with eager fans ready to relive the anthems that defined a generation, buzzed with excitement. When The Cult finally took the stage, it was as if a freight train had barreled into the venue; their presence was magnetic, and the roar of the crowd confirmed that they were ready to embark on a nostalgic journey through the band’s illustrious history. Celebrating 40 years since the release of their debut LP, “Dreamtime”, The Cult has aged like a fine wine, proving that their musical prowess only deepens with time. Led by the charismatic Ian Astbury and the fiercely talented guitarist Billy Duffy, the band showcased their ability to hold their ground alongside musicians half their age. The performance was a testament to their enduring appeal, drawing in both long-time fans and a new generation of rock enthusiasts.
Throughout the night, The Cult delivered a powerful setlist filled with hits that spanned their career. From the ethereal melodies of “Wild Flower” to the anthemic “Sweet Soul Sister,” and the hard-charging energy of “Love Removal Machine,” each song resonated with the audience’s collective memory. The emotional weight of “Edie (Ciao Baby)” further demonstrated the band’s ability to connect with their listeners on a deeper level, eliciting a wave of nostalgia that filled the venue. Billy Duffy, a true guitar maestro, commanded the stage with a fierce intensity. His performance was nothing short of exhilarating; he wielded his guitar like a warrior with a weapon, attacking each note with relentless passion.
From the very first opener, “In the Clouds,” to the closing moments of the night, Duffy’s guitar work was a force of nature that never let up. His energy and skill set the tone for a performance that was both high-octane and emotionally charged. Driving the band with an unyielding pulse, drummer John Tempesta showcased his extraordinary talent. His powerful beats and relentless rhythm exceeded all expectations, providing the backbone for The Cult’s dynamic sound. The combination of Tempesta’s drumming, Duffy’s guitar prowess, and Astbury’s commanding vocals created a rich musical landscape that captivated the audience from start to finish. In conclusion, The Cult’s performance at Fortitude Music Hall was not merely a concert; it was a celebration of rock music’s enduring legacy.
As they delivered one unforgettable hit after another, the band proved that they continue to thrive in an ever-evolving musical landscape. With their captivating energy and timeless anthems, The Cult has solidified their place as one of rock’s most enduring acts, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next chapter.
SET LIST
‘Ride of the Valkyries’ | Apocalypse Now / In The Clouds / Rise / Wild Flower / Star / The Witch / Mirror / War (The Process) / Resurrection Joe / Edie (Ciao Baby) / Sweet Soul Sister / Lucifer / Fire Woman / Rain / Spiritwalker / Love Removal Machine / Brother Wolf, Sister Moon / She Sells Sanctuary
