Gang of Youths have the magic touch in Melbourne

Dave Le’aupepe and co captivate a wild Melbourne crowd at Festival Hall during headline tour. Reviewed by Taliah Lagioia.

Headlining their Go Father in Lightness tour last week at Festival Hall, few would have guessed that a just a couple of years ago Sydney band Gang of Youths were relative newcomers to the indie scene.

Led by the charismatic singer/songwriter Dave Le’aupepe, the band are magic to watch. Gang of Youths give it their all and at almost two hours of rocking out on stage, and occasionally in the crowd, this did not disappoint.

From their debut album The Positions, the obvious crowd-pleaser Magnolia, got the crowd moving and singing. During an emotional rendition of Knuckles White Dry moved some of the crowd to tears.

Tracks from their new album feel hopeful, with both Let Me Down Easy & What Can I Do If The Fire Goes Out getting the room jumping up and down. The gig flowed in and out of quiet reflection, beautiful interludes and your classic fist in the air rock performance.

They ended the night with Say Yes to Life, an inspiring reminder that life is short and for the living.

There’s something very special about Gang of Youths; they’re talented, empowering, creative and captivating. The band is at their best fans can’t wait to see what’s next.