Ummagummamumma

As a live music enthusiast, there’s a unique thrill that comes with arriving early to concerts to catch the support acts. These moments, more often than not become incredible experiences of musical discovery, where the joy of finding new talent blends seamlessly with the anticipation of the main act. Here’s why I find these experiences so enriching and why I believe catching the support acts is an essential part of the live music experience.

Discovering Hidden Gems

Support acts are often up-and-coming artists or local talents waiting for their big break. By catching these performances, I’ve stumbled upon some phenomenal artists who have later become staples in my music collection. There’s something special about watching these performers pour their hearts and souls into their music, often playing to smaller crowds but with immense passion. The raw, unfiltered talent on display is not just inspiring but a reminder of the diverse and rich music scene we have in South East Queensland and beyond.

The Intimate Atmosphere

Support acts typically play in a more intimate setting, as the venue fills up. This creates a personal and engaging experience. I’ve had some of my best concert experiences standing at the foot of the stage, feeling every strum of the guitar and every emotion in the singer’s voice, experiencing close-up their motivation and talent shine over their nerves. It’s these up-close and personal experiences that sometimes stay with us even longer than the main act itself.

Supporting the Music Ecosystem

By showing up for the support acts, we contribute to the nurturing and growth of the music industry. These artists are often at the beginning of their careers, and every audience member counts. Our presence not only boosts their confidence but also provides them with a larger audience to impress, which can be pivotal in their journey.

The Element of Surprise

There’s an element of unpredictability and excitement in not knowing what to expect. I’ve been pleasantly surprised more times than I can count. Sometimes, it’s a unique sound, other times, it’s a memorable stage presence or a song that resonates with me on a personal level. These surprises are what make live music so exhilarating.

Who’s Impressed Me Lately…

Catching the support acts is more than just about filling time before the main event. It’s about discovery, supporting emerging talent, enjoying intimate performances, and the thrill of the unexpected. With solid conviction, I can list out those that have particularly impressed me throughout 2023:

Future Static (Supporting The Omnific at Camden Assembly, October, 2023) – These legends have just released an absolutely killer new album. Seeing them for the first time was a fucking treat and was ultimately a surreal experience; it’s not every day you get to discover an Aussie act while on holidays in London town. This will always go on to be a very special gig in my heart. They are a live act to be reckoned with for fucking sure! The energy on stage is electric and if they don’t have you jumping around with them then you don’t have a soul.

Dust (Supporting DZ Deathrays at The Princess Theatre, Brisbane, August, 2023; and more recently supporting Bloc Party and Interpol at Riverstage, Brisbane, November, 2023) – Dust blew me away the first time, and excited me the second. I remember telling my partner the first time we saw them that they sounded like a more proggy, Aussie version of Bloc Party with added sax… and low and behold a few months later they are supporting that very band. From my perspective they were received well by the crowd, and I seriously hope to hell that it converts into more streams in the digital music space and further recognition for them within the industry. They deserve to be seen.

Southern River Band (Supporting Eagles Of Death Metal at The Tivoli, Brisbane, July, 2023) – Haha holy shit do these guys know how to work a crowd! I’ve been told by my mate (shout outs to Tracey Moyle; I will never doubt you!) that I simpley HAD TO see the Southern River Band live, and she wasn’t wrong! This band is chock full of Aussie larrikinism, in the refreshing kind of way. They were so much fun to shoot and I hope to do that again very bloody soon.

There’s loads more of course, but a girl’s only got so much time, and if I haven’t convinced you by now to show up just a wee bit earlier for a gig, then you probably would’ve stopped reading by now. I like to basically think of it as “Today’s support acts are tomorrow’s superstars”. Don’t live life wondering what you missed out on. All your discoveries are waiting for you, right before the headliner.