For a band that lacks the inherent polish and finesse of a more experienced outfit, the DMA’s sure can command a crowd impressively.
Opening with Play It Out and Feels Like 37, the show started well, but had room for improvement. Straight Dimensions was a lovely addition, the flowing track matched well with the chilled stage presence of the band, and signalled the mark of a gradual improvement throughout the night.
The show definitely got better as it progressed. By the time DMA’s made it to their undeniably biggest hit, Delete, they were well and truly operating smoothly, and the audience lapped it up.
With the obvious influence of Noel Gallagher lacing each word, and a cover of Madonna’s Beautiful Stranger, the show was a bit of a hark back to the ‘90s, although most of the very young crowd looked as though they wouldn’t remember any of the decade.
Everything was packed into this show. The band was loud, so loud. The trio was joined on stage by three other musos, a move that did nothing for the show except make more noise where it wasn’t needed. The songs were crowded with instruments and the Croxton held the noise in.
Anyone who has had the chance to see DMA’s in a festival setting can confidently say that is where their live show reaches its full potential. The sing-a-long vibes of the relaxed and earnest band are far better suited to an outdoor setting, where the music has somewhere to go, and the sound of a crowd singing is another instrument, aiding and not hindering the show.
They may have a reasonably small catalogue to choose from, but their setlist is filled with fan and crowd favourites, at times the show felt like it was hit after hit after hit. Although a few people could be spotted leaving the venue after Delete, when DMA’s came back out for their encore they put those punters to shame, nailing Laced, and finally Lay Down, ending with the best tunes of the night.
DMA’s are just at the beginning of their career, this is a band ready to grow and polish in their own way, and it’s excited to see how they evolve.
BY CLAIRE VARLEY
Loved: That the music reminded me of Summer trips to the coast, or being stuck in a chocolate milk television ad.
Hated: The opening tracks.
Drank: Vodka and lemonade.
