Middle Kids, Astor Theatre - 7 November, 2019

Two years ago, a shy trio took their place on stage at Kings Park to support the mighty Paul

Kelly. They were assured a huge crowd, but in their opening time slot it was a crowd more interested in dabbing hummus on a cracker than watching a great band in the making. A few Triple J listeners recognised their hit single Edge of Town but overall it was a subdued reception.

Paul Kelly has always chosen his support acts with prophetic wisdom. A year later, Middle Kids' debut album,Lost Friends, had been met with critical acclaim, Sir Elton John had added Edge of Town to his playlist, and the band received the J Award for Album of the Year.

Now headlining shows in their own right and winning new fans around the world as a result of their full tour schedule (noting that front woman Hannah Joy is now 7 months pregnant with husband and band mate Tim Fitz) and sing along hits, Middle Kids found their New Songs for Old Problems tour of Perth an altogether different beast to their 2017 support slot.

A sold out crowd at the Astor had already packed out the standing areas during Didirri's opener. A child circus performer turned musician, this singer songwriter is one to watch - if Paul Kelly picks him up on tour at any stage, take it as a sign.

But this venue was ready to rock and through foggy blue lighting the opening strains of Mistake saw this show kick off as it meant to go on. With upside down guitar teetering over her baby bump, Hannah Joy's confidence and stage presence has clearly rocketed since 2017. She is now a compelling front woman with a commanding voice that swings between rock and country, mellow and roaring, This is a band in full flow and having a great time. With just one EP, an album and a 6 track mini album under their belt, their set showcased their biggest hits and a playful spirit - a guitar jam band threatening to break free at any moment.

Momentary restraint came in Maryland and Doing it Right which saw Hannah park the guitar briefly to step across to the piano. It was a nice interlude, with the classically trained pianist showing another dimension to her talents .The track, from Middle Kids 2017 self titled EP, is a rare gem as the band has stayed firmly in its guitar lane since Lost Friends, but the commercial potential of a Hannah-piannah side project, should she ever choose it, is without doubt..

For now, though, Middle Kids remains amongst the very best of Australian indie guitar bands, but with the kind of song craft that will attract mainstream audiences who love a good melody and anthemic lyrics. What the future may be for the band post the delivery of the new kid might be uncertain (especially with both parents in the band) but hopefully whilst they are off the road, a slew of new songs, and hopefully another full album will follow.

Good luck with the 2020 release Tim and Hannah, and don't be hiding for too long Middle Kids!

★★★★

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