Despite the agreeable beer garden aesthetic that Lime Cordiale maintain so effortlessly, the pop-rock band’s passion for theatrics, humour, and crowd work means they are equally well-equipped to handle enormous crowds.
This was on full display at John Cain Arena this week (October 8th), as they ticked off the Melbourne box of their Australia and New Zealand tour.
The momentum and excitement didn’t take long to grow thanks to opening acts Aleksiah and Ball Park Music, with the latter being a particularly stellar support pick. As a band with deep ties to Lime Cordiale’s history, Ball Park Music offered the ideal precursor to the main act.
Launching straight into chaotic fun, the Leimbach brothers emerged, led by Oli on guitar and Louis with his bass guitar. They ran through a perfectly balanced setlist, highlighting newer hits like “Facts of Life” and “Happiness Season,” while never forgetting iconic staples like “Temper Temper” and “Naturally.”
The lyrics were memorable but the instrumentals were just as impressive, Oli able to sneak in some clarinet action while his brother stunned on trumpet and – genuinely – the kazoo.
Lime Cordiale’s playground attitude was infectious, making the cavernous arena feel much smaller. The duo’s casual (but light) swearing and friendly jabs only enhanced the overall atmosphere, encouraging the crowd to drop their shoulders and get in on the fun.
@limecordiale Melbourne that was insane! Sydney who’s ready? #ontour
Their playful attitude was never more evident than in their attempt to turn one side of the crowd against the other; credit where credit is due, they clearly understood the assignment.
With Oli choosing one side and Louis the other, the rivalry slowly debilitated until it transformed into a cartoonish boxing match between the brothers, accompanied by a ref and dramatic “Bang!” and “Ka-pow!” graphics overhead.
Moving into the back half of the evening, they graced the crowd with their iconic cover of Divinyls’ “I Touch Myself” on triple j’s Like A Version, before finishing the show with a three-act encore, dissolving the battle between the left and right side of the crowd and uniting them to sing “Waking Up Easy,” “Robbery,” and “Inappropriate Behaviour.”
It takes a measured touch to ensure Lime Cordiale’s youthful exuberance doesn’t overindulge itself, but the Leimbach brothers carry it off with panache.
Lime Cordiale will next be sharing their fun-loving style in Sydney on Friday, October 11th at ICC Sydney Theatre, heading over to Brisbane’s Riverstage on Sunday, October 13th, before crossing the pond to New Zealand next week.
Lime Cordiale tour tickets available can be found here.
