Barns Courtney & The Struts at State Theatre

Both bands combined all the best of modern rock with the wild & reckless vibes of the '70s scene and gave us just want we needed to get through the week.

Courtney commanded the audience from the moment he set foot on the stage. His energy seemed endless as he jumped and danced around his fellow performers, took a turn playing the drums (by standing on the kit), and cooled off with a drink given to him by a fan. Despite his antics, he never missed a note and showed no signs of slowing down. He truly pours his soul into every moment, and his connection to his craft is palpable from the pit to the nosebleeds.

Similarly, The Struts' frontman Luke Spiller's performance was (and always is) reminiscent of a young Freddy Mercury; all smiles as he encourages the crowd to join him in spine-chilling bellows which are seemingly effortless to him. Spiller and his bandmates exude confidence and natural swagger, as well as an endearing appreciation for their fans, and wonderment at the crowds that gather to see them perform. Both bands embody the spirit of modern rock 'n' roll so authentically, it's undeniable that they were born for the stage.