Confidence Man 23/11/24
Invited| Review by Michael Dunwell
The best bands have the power to transport you to another world. Cigarettes After Sex might whisk you away to a smoky midnight dive bar, while Junodream launches you straight into outer space. This Saturday, Confidence Man took Newcastle on a journey to an entirely different dimension.
NX, a sprawling 2,000-capacity venue in the heart of Newcastle, embodies everything you’d want in a classic concert hall. From a solid beer selection to clear views of the stage—whether you’re near the barrier or standing at the back—it’s designed to enhance the live music experience. Surrounding NX are fantastic bars perfect for pre-gig drinks. The Dog and Parrot offers an excellent beer selection paired with a playlist of nonstop indie classics, while the Mosaic Tap, just a short 5-10 minute walk away, is a cosy spot featuring an impressive range of craft brews from local and international breweries. A visit to one of these nearby gems is a must to kick off your night at NX.
Opening the night were New York’s Fcukers, a band delivering a raw, industrial sound that seamlessly blends classic synth tones, distorted guitars, bursts of brass, and, most importantly, plenty of cowbell. My personal favourite track, Homie Don’t Shake, channels the distorted guitar energy of Daft Punk’s Robot Rock with a Chemical Brothers-style edge, creating a timeless, electrifying vibe. It’s the perfect soundtrack for writing this review in local spot Elder Beer—a fantastic bar/café with a stellar selection of local brews and a warm, inclusive atmosphere—but it truly comes alive on stage with undeniable intensity. Fcukers are a must-see band—not one to miss.
The main event was Australian outfit Confidence Man, a band with a presence so unique it felt almost otherworldly. Vocalists Janet Planet and Sugar Bones lit up the stage with boundless energy, immersing the crowd through perfectly synchronised choreography, lifts, and infectious dance moves. Their performance transformed the room into a euphoric celebration, inviting everyone to let loose and fully immerse themselves in the moment.
A special shoutout goes to Confidence Man’s production designer, Rob Sinclair. While the music was the undeniable centrepiece of the night, the visuals elevated the experience to another level. With distorted, vibrant colours, quirky appearances of badgers and pigeons, and close-ups of the vocalists pulling faces, the visuals were both surreal and unforgettable. Even the opening screen displaying “Confidence Man Loading” set the tone, making it clear we weren’t just in Newcastle anymore—we had entered Confidence Man’s world. And by the end of the night, no one wanted to leave.
But there’s more to Confidence Man than their charismatic front duo. Behind the scenes, an enigmatic pair provides the backbone of the band’s sound: Reggie Goodchild on production and Clarence McGuffie on drums. For me personally, this dynamic is the real draw. The fusion of electro-pop with live drums adds an explosive depth to their music, grounding it with a raw, gritty edge. While their true identities remain a mystery—hidden behind black hats and curtains—what truly matters is the incredible music they create—music that makes people feel undeniably good. Their air of mystery only amplifies the allure and lore of Confidence Man.
Opening a set with your top Spotify track is a bold move, but it perfectly reflects the confidence (intended) of Confidence Man. Launching straight into Now U Do immediately broke the ice, pulling the crowd into their world and setting the tone for the high-energy night ahead.
A standout moment for me was their performance of I CAN’T LOSE YOU, the lead single from their latest album 3AM (LA LA LA). This track radiates an infectious energy, paying homage to the classic ’90s British rave scene. From the sharp synth stabs reminiscent of N-Joi to the atmospheric, room-filling vibes of Orbital, it’s a song that grabs hold and doesn’t let go. Another highlight from the album, CONTROL, brought to mind the dreamy euphoria of Orbital’s Halcyon and On and On. Hearing it live was electrifying, and it’s been on repeat for me ever since—instantly transporting me back to the world they created on stage.
This review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the hit Holiday—an instant classic that firmly establishes Confidence Man as one of the greats in their genre. Despite the chilly winter weather (it had even snowed earlier in Newcastle), this track effortlessly transported the entire crowd straight into summer. With stunning visuals courtesy of Rob Sinclair and the infectious energy of Confidence Man’s flawless production and vocals, Holiday was a true highlight of the night.
In conclusion, Confidence Man delivered an unforgettable performance in Newcastle, blending otherworldly visuals, irresistibly catchy beats, and electrifying dance moves. Paired with Fcukers’ incredible sound, it made for a night that will stay with me for a long time. I highly recommend exploring both bands and urge you to experience them live if you ever get the chance—you won’t regret it.
Song Recommendations
Confidence Man: I CAN’T LOSE YOU, CONTROL, Holiday
Fcuckers: Homie Don’t Shake, Bon Bon (and the Confidence Man remix), Devils Cut