After sold-out shows in The USA and hometown London, Rex Orange County started the Australian leg of his Pacific tour in Adelaide. Alexander James O’Connor, as his mother calls him, released Bcos U Will Never B Free in 2015 and began his set with “Rex (Intro)” from that mixtape, seated in low red light at his keyboards. Sometimes described as playing “bedroom music”, Rex was sultry and captivating.
The second song “Television / So Far So Good,” from the second album burst the curtain open to expose a vast backing band at the rear of the stage. The energy and enthusiasm on stage was infectious and the audience responded accordingly. The third song “10/10” was from Pony, the third album. The fact that an artist can weave songs together from four albums (latest album Who Cares was released in 2022) over five or six years is a tribute to his songwriting skill.
With an impressive light show, a voluminous backing band, engaging and genuine performance, this is one of those shows that will be talked about for some time.
The support act grentperez were a perfect choice to open the show. Grant Perez is a Filipino-Australian singer / songwriter from Western Sydney. Showcasing the When We Were Younger EP, the three piece group won over the crowd quickly. A sea of phone lights for one song was a touching moment. The trio’s enthusiasm and passion were infectious.
Our photographer John Goodridge was there to capture some of the fun, below.
Rex Orange County Tour
Friday Sept 22 – Brisbane Riverstage
Saturday Sept 23 – Sydney Horden Pavilion
Sunday Sept 24 – Sydney Horden Pavilion
Wednesday Sept 27 – Melbourne Margaret Court Arena
Thursday Sept 28 – Melbourne Margaret Court Arena
Sunday Oct 1st – Perth Belvoir Theatre
Check ticket availability here
