Gig Review: The Rubens

GIG REVIEW

The Rubens - Enmore Theatre May 25th


As a previous skeptic to the unbelievable talent of these four west Sydney boys I have to admit that their debut release more than won me over.

I saw their live show for the first time on Saturday night at one of my favourite venues the Enmore Theatre. And whilst it was thoroughly enjoyable it came in short of blowing me away. Musically the band of Margin brothers and childhood mate Scott performed to perfection. There was even a spectacular light show, quite fitting for Vivid Festival that commenced in Sydney the previous night. A great addition to the gig.

My only real criticism is the less-than-animated approach the guys take to actually performing their incredible catalog. As an audience member I often find it difficult to get enthusiastic during a gig if the band themselves don’t seem to be.

Perhaps it was nerves at playing a hometown gig where the patrons include a good deal of family and friends, perhaps it was laziness, personal opposition or even inebriation. What ever the reason it brought my rating down from ‘Absolutely Excellent’ to ‘Really Quite Great’.

Regardless, these guys have got the ability to become one of Australia’s iconic bands if they want to be, they’ve got the talent and the following. And with a sold out national tour practice is sure to make perfect.