Brisbane indie-punk outfit SEMANTICS wrapped up their Sydney shows for 2024 with a stellar set at the UNSW Roundhouse on 22 November.
The band had the privilege of opening for La Dispute, who performed Rooms of the House in full for an exclusive Sydney appearance as part of their 10th-anniversary celebrations. SEMANTICS brought their trademark energy and emotional intensity to the stage, holding their own alongside one of post-hardcore’s most revered acts.
This performance marked SEMANTICS’ last Sydney appearance of the year before they headed back to Brisbane for their final gig of 2024—a headline slot at the newly reopened Crowbar tonight. Formerly known as The Zoo, the venue recently underwent a transformation after shutting down in June following 32 years as a cornerstone of Brisbane’s live music scene. Rising costs and shifting audience habits forced its closure earlier this year.
Crowbar, renowned for its dedication to punk, hardcore, and metal, stepped in to revive the space, with co-founder Tyla Dombroski highlighting the importance of preserving Brisbane’s live music culture. “Brisbane is slowly losing its venues, so we’re really excited to be able to bring one back,” Dombroski said ahead of tonight’s grand opening. With SEMANTICS helping to christen the new Crowbar, it’s a fitting end to a massive year for the band.
SEMANTICS have been riding high off the release of their sophomore album, I Feel It All At Once, via SideOne Dummy Records. The album, praised for its mix of crushing riffs and introspective lyrics, has solidified their place as one of Australia’s most exciting rising acts. Their set at the Roundhouse showcased the chemistry and creative growth captured on the album, with frontman Callum Robinson leading the charge.
Tonight’s Crowbar show not only closes the year for SEMANTICS but also signals a new chapter for Brisbane’s live music scene. The venue, a reimagined version of the beloved Zoo, promises to be a hub for both Australian and international acts in 2025 and beyond.
Photos: SEMANTICS supporting LA Dispute at UNSW Roundhouse 22/11/2024 (Photos by James Miller
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