The musical offerings at this year’s Illuminate Festival have been nothing short of inspired. From the two night Unsound festival, to the melodic sounds of Faroese-Icelandic duo, Kiasmos, the music has been captivating. The crowd at Friday night’s Hindley St Music Hall are sure to agree.
Opening act Juno Mamba is a Filipino born musician who has spent his life in Australia since he was young. His set was a light and spiritual entry into the evening. He is touring with Kiasmos as they make their way around the country. His style reminds me of the old school classic tunes. The songs are light and airy, with a stunning light display to complement the music. He surely won over a number of converts during the evening.
But there was a buzz of excitement for Kiasmos. The experimental techno duo, composed of Ólafur Arnalds and Janus Rasmussen have not toured Australia for several years which made the show even more exciting. They are masters at creating a sonic landscape that is understated yet exciting all at once.
Their ability to bring a crowd along with them was almost reverential. I heard someone describe the event as like a holy experience. There was a sense of a shared journey with everyone a part of the show. Yet it was not all silence and low-key. The all-important drops came just at the right times to keep the energy levels high. They covered a good range of songs from their four EPs released over the last ten years.
For those new to Kiasmos’ music and those who have followed them from the start, this was a beautiful and inspiring evening. The crowd reaction shots show the energy in the beautiful Hindley St Music Hall.
FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Filled with artists, innovators, and the unexpected, Illuminate Adelaide is a beacon calling to all of us to stay up, head out, look forward, break ground, dance hard, and make memories.
Check out the details on their website
All images credit: Kerrie Geier
