Alien Ant Farm stormed Melbourne’s Northcote Theatre on February 9, delivering a high-octane performance that left the crowd buzzing.
The night kicked off with local heavyweights Frankenbok, who set the stage ablaze with their ferocious riffs and unrelenting energy. Following them, co-headliners Drowning Pool took the intensity up a notch, igniting mosh pits with their signature brand of hard-hitting metal.
By the time Alien Ant Farm hit the stage at 10:15 PM, the audience was primed and ready. Opening with Courage, the band immediately showcased their tight musicianship and charismatic stage presence. Frontman Dryden Mitchell commanded the crowd, his vocals seamlessly transitioning from melodic verses to powerful choruses.
The setlist was a well-curated mix of fan favourites and deeper cuts. Tracks like Movies and These Days had the entire venue singing along. While songs such as Flesh and Bone and Attitude highlighted the band’s versatility and depth. The energy in the room was palpable, with the crowd feeding off the band’s enthusiasm and vice versa.
Of course, no Alien Ant Farm show would be complete without their iconic cover of Michael Jackson’s Smooth Criminal. As the opening notes rang out, the audience erupted, and the band delivered a rendition that was both faithful to the original and infused with their unique flair.
Visually, the performance was stripped-back yet effective, focusing on the raw connection between the band and the audience. The lighting accentuated the mood of each song, and the absence of elaborate stage props kept the attention squarely on the music.
As the night drew to a close, Alien Ant Farm left the stage to thunderous applause. They had reaffirmed their place in the hearts of Melbourne’s rock enthusiasts. Their performance at the Northcote Theatre was a testament to their enduring appeal. It also served as a reminder of why they’ve remained a staple in the alternative rock scene for all this time.
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