Electric Six at Nambucca

US rockers Electric Six truly shock the UK once again. This time, they take everyone to Nambucca, not a gay bar. With 16 studio albums, the crowd are more likely to be struck by lightning than for the band to run out of hits.

The six-piece do not keep fans waiting long to hear them. At exactly 10pm, the lights dim. The musicians are dressed exactly how you’d expect people who’ve been performing for 15 years to dress – in full suits – and they command the stage just as professionally.

Opener Rock and Roll Evacuation has no one evacuating. In fact, people dance closer to the stage, wanting to get as near to the rock and roll as possible. Every member of the ensemble emits electrifying energy. She’s White introduces us to the talent of the percussionist – simply addressed as “my drummer” – while guitarist White Wolf lays down the familiar chords. Tait Nucleus, the group’s keyboardist, obviously shines on Synthesiser. Second guitarist Da Vė manages to keep up with the heavy solos. Bassist Rob Lower captures the opening bassline of Gay Bar as if he’s been there from the start. And, of course, there is Dick Valentine, the enigmatic frontman, who doubles up as a comedian.

It is hard to believe such deep lyrics come from such a funny man. Down at McDonnelzzz attacks consumerism, and its cult-like nature, with a catchy chorus that most sing and jump to. Improper Dancing has the venue jumping higher and showing off their most improper moves, which include rolling over each other, shoving and falling on the stage. This is mashed up with (Who The Hell Just) Call My Phone?, highlighting the versatility of the group and demonstrating how two songs almost of different genres can blend so well together.

It is refreshing hearing Danger! High Voltage and Gay Bar come from the band and not some speakers at a club. However, it isn’t as refreshing being caught up in a frenzied crowd during the first notes of the latter track. Everyone moves as one, just as cohesively as the band. For the final song, aptly named Showstopper, the lead singer and the drummer swap positions, showing even more flexibility in their talents.

It is a show – a performance – not just a gig. If everyone inside wasn’t a fan of Electric Six already, then they certainly left one, and maybe even bought a t-shirt. This is, in fact, probably the only concert where straight guys can chant “I love Dick” and ask to be taken to a gay bar without being questioned.

Regan Harle
Photos: Erol Birsen

For further information and future events visit Electric Six’s website here.

Watch the video for I Got the Box here: