The Emperor’s New Clothes, a Cinematic Affair: The Cat Empire play the Tivoli
Words: Sophie Hart
Saturday, August 28
I have to admit I walked into this review process a sceptic. I haven’t had much exposure to The Cat Empire outside what I hear on the radio, and may have found the breakout hit Hello mildly irritating after over zealous DJ’s declared it was the only song I needed to hear for most of 2003. So, I wasn’t entirely sure of what to expect from the self confessed “country’s most successful musical exports” (taken from the band’s web site). I was pleasantly surprised. Vocalists Felix Riebl and Harry J Angus took the sold out crowd on a journey through the band’s back catalogue and into their new album Cinema, a sign of their new direction.
The night warmed up with support acts Mama Kin and Clairy Baby Browne and the Bangin’ Rackettes putting on strong opening performances. Stand out moments included renditions of Nancy Sinatra’s Bang Bang, and Dolly Parton’s Jolene, both given a new lease on life by Clairy Brown and her Motown styled and choreographed backup singers. Their contribution had the crowded venue dancing in preparation for the main act.
From the moment The Cat Empire took the stage they had the audience at their feet. The prolific performers have toured across Australia and the World several times over. They even herald their new album, Cinema as the product of a much needed 8 month break after endlessly touring and recording since the bands inception 10 years ago.
It is more than evident that the band are very familiar and comfortable with each other on stage. Their performance was undeniably infectious and well executed, with all 6 performers effortlessly amalgamating their numerous instruments and still having a moment to shine with extended instrumental breaks showcasing each performer.
If I walked into this review as a sceptic, I walked out with a new appreciation for The Cat Empire as live performers. Though they weren’t particularly conversational with their audience, they took them on a musical journey, showcasing a back catalogue of favourites and an emerging new direction that delighted their eclectic and diverse fan base. And all without mega hit “Hello”…