The American six-piece indie rock band from Brooklyn White Rabbits continued their rampage of the Australian coasts with their second last show on our shores at Melbourne’s renowned Corner Hotel. After dazzling crowds at Falls Festival and in Sydney the previous night (see Larry’s review: link), expectations were high, and so was the vibrancy and anticipation the moments before the sextuplet took the stage. 

Within seconds, the room was captured in a vivacious energy as the group harnessed multiple instruments with incredible mixing, evidently and clearly drawing influences from The Walkmen, Spoon and Kaiser Chiefs whom have all personally invited to join them on tours. 

The crowd, captivated straight away as the group launched in favourites’ Lionesse and While We Were Dancing created a lively atmosphere in which all doubts of the Rabbits’ live finesse and performance were put to rest. The set list continued to move and explore tracks from both the groups acclaimed debut Fort Nightly, and the recent It’s Frightening which has found them more mainstream alternative appeal. With only two albums in the catalogue, the group although being restricted in variation still managed to perform a solid and satisfying performance leaving no fan disappointed.  

A rare feat for bands these days appears to be able to keep the crowd hooked, interested and intrigued for the entirety of the show, White Rabbits conquered this challenge by a fine exhibition of their skill, technique and song captivation delivered through an exuberant and energetic performance. 

Fan favourite ‘Percussion Gun’ surprisingly was the only disappointment of the night, not because of the performance, but for the crowds reaction. Having three attendees climb upon the shoulders of another in an intimate venue such as the Corner is ridiculous and heinous enough, but having to block others views, put others in danger and then try to resist the heeding of the security is another. As the group performed an amazing rendition of their signature single with, as the title suggestions, an explosion of drums present, one found it almost impossible to stay concentrated and involved when the involvement of the crowd created an enclosed chaos and disdain.   

This, and the shortness of the set (clocking in at just under an hour) were the only disappointments of an incredibly satisfying and enthralling evening. This fan and undoubtedly every other that has witnessed a performance in their debut tour are exceedingly excited and curious to witness what the White Rabbits will next create.