Jungle Giants | Northcote theatre

Live Review

19 Apr

The vibe was electric from the start at Northcote Theatre on Friday night, with an energetic crowd ready for a night of dancing and celebration. Opening the evening was Sycco, the 23-year-old Brisbane artist who’s already made waves performing at St Jerome's Laneway Festival, supporting Vera Blue, Spacey Jane, and Glass Animals, collaborating with Flume, and releasing her debut album Zorb. On the night, she performed a DJ set with her friends, bringing a carefree, joyful energy to the stage. It felt more like a party than a support act, setting the perfect tone for what was to come.

When The Jungle Giants stepped out, the theatre erupted. They launched straight into On Your Way Down, and from that moment on, didn’t miss a beat. Formed in 2011 by a group of high school friends from Mansfield State High in Brisbane, the band has built a reputation for genre-blending indie-pop and dynamic live shows. Their experience and chemistry were on full display throughout the night.

The setlist was packed with standouts- fan favourites like Feel the Way I Do, Used to Be in Love, and Heavy Hearted had the entire room singing, dancing, and completely immersed. Other highlights included Charge My Phone, Trippin Up, and Monstertruck, each track bringing something fresh while still fitting the band’s playful, upbeat style.

Visually, the performance was just as striking. Each song was paired with a bold, solid lighting colour, giving the set a rhythmic, aesthetic cohesion that added to the immersive atmosphere. It was a small but powerful detail that made the show feel polished and considered.

At the centre of it all was Sam Hales, whose stage presence was magnetic. He was confident, expressive, and engaging, making the large venue feel personal. Having recently overcome heartbreak and a serious jet-ski accident requiring surgery and recovery, Hales seemed energised and emotionally grounded. His gratitude for the moment was clear- and the audience returned that energy tenfold.

The night closed with In Her Eyes, a boppy, upbeat house track that left the theatre bouncing. It was a perfect final note- bright, infectious, and full of joy.

It was my first time at Northcote Theatre, and I was blown away by both the venue and the atmosphere. With Sycco’s fun, feel-good opener and The Jungle Giants at their very best, this was a night to remember.