Though some may not believe it, NSW hip-hop group Hermitude have been around for over ten years.
It seems fitting then that they are finally getting rewarded for their efforts, having to put on two extra shows in Melbourne for their Australian The Villain Tour.
At the first of their three shows, there was a definite sense of anticipation and excitement early in the night as punters filtered in to DJ A13 spinning some tracks.
The eager crowd was at near capacity even for support act Jonti. The South African-born, Sydney-based experimental producer showcased a broad spectrum of sounds, warming the crowd up for the hip-hop revelry that was to come.
There were screams of delight as the two halves of Hermitude, Luke Dubber and Angus Stuart high-fived their way onto the stage. Touch pads slung around their necks in a fluorescent glow, the duo dropped the beats for the blues-sampling “All Of You.”
In an instant, the floor was transformed into a joyous dance party that extended into the far reaches of the band room. The duo pleased everyone with their vibrant sampling and infectious beats, minor piano riffs, scratch turntablism and everything else, building into a crescendo and speeding to a sudden halt.
It was time for a breather. “What the f*ck is up!” the pair chanted.
After a moment of pause came the customary sing-along to Solomon Linda’s “The Lion Sleeps Tonight,” the folk classic that provided an intro into the chaos and splendour of “Hyperparadise.” The tune’s sense of anticipation and gutsy beats had everyone busting a groove and raising their arms in a cultish wave.
Just when the audience thought things couldn’t get any more intense, there was the announcement that they were going to “flip some sh*t” followed by the deep, dark thud of bass for “The Villain.” The party vibes continued for a set that lasted just under an hour.
As expected, Dubs and Elgusto returned to the stage for what seemed a rather lengthy encore, one that faded out rather than providing a solid finish.
After such a dynamic and hectic set, the subdued and repetitive vibe was a little hard to take. To Hermitude’s loyal fans though, this mattered little, the twosome giving thanks and telling everyone to make sure they came and said hello near the merchandise stand after the show.
After seeing such a spectacle – both from Hermitude and from their adoring fans – there is little doubt as to why the duo have become so popular. Anyone lucky to catch them on their current tour is certainly in for an enjoyable time.
