As I walked into the venue, a tranquil yet anticipatory atmosphere enveloped the space, heightened by the soft strains of classical music in the background. This marked the third visit of South Korean alt-hip hop trio Epik High to Australian shores, adding Brisbane and Perth to their 2024 tour. Having missed their previous tours in 2019 and 2022, this was my first chance to experience their live performance.
As the lights dimmed and the venue’s energy surged, the crowd’s fervor crescendoed into cheers and applause. The trio—Tablo, Mithra Jin, and DJ Tukutz—burst onto the stage with electrifying energy, kicking off the night with dynamic performances of “ANTIHERO” and “LATE CHECKOUT” from their latest album, PUMP.
The trio’s stage presence was nothing short of commanding. Their charisma was palpable as they seamlessly shifted between intense performances and light-hearted banter. Their interactions with fans, both spontaneous and scripted, added a layer of warmth and humor to the evening.
The setlist was a masterful blend of upbeat anthems and introspective tracks, showcasing Epik High’s versatility. Highlights included the high-energy “부르즈 할리파 (Burj Khalifa)” and the reflective “Screen Time.” Older classics like “Love Love Love” and “One” also made an impact, proving timeless favorites with the audience as everyone participated in the synchronised jump to the music commanded by trio.
As the night progressed, the energy only intensified. Tracks like “Kiss This Love” and “High Technology” kept the crowd engaged and chanting along, particularly to the infectious beats of “High Technology.”
A poignant moment came when Tablo shared reflections on the challenges of touring, including the sense of disconnection from home due to constant travel. This introspective segment was followed by a heartfelt performance of “Home is Far Away,” which highlighted the group’s impressive vocal abilities, whether singing or rapping.
As the trio took their bows, acknowledging both the ground floor and the seated areas in the foyer, the lighting dimmed. However, the audience’s immediate chant for an encore was both humorous and understandable, reflecting their deep appreciation for the performance.
In summary, Epik High’s performance far surpassed my expectations, particularly given my recent introduction to their music. Their exceptional stage presence and vocal prowess delivered a memorable night, blending their genre-defying sound with an engaging live experience.
