For a band like Kora to have a major following in New Zealand, I thought it may prove interesting to see the reaction of their performance in an Australian city like Brisbane. Hailing from Whakatane, this New Zealand reggae, rock, dub and roots band are comprised of a family of brothers and have certainly come quite a way since first winning the high school ‘Rockquest Competiton’ a few years back. Their rich vocal harmonies and charisma have certainly earned them enough favorable points to make their mark across the big pond.

As a start up to the night, CBD Dub Project were the first band and with an eclectic mix of brass instruments, hip hop vocals, and a funky dub sound, they made for a great way to start off an already amping crowd. Following this was Roger That; a great band that I thought an excellent choice as support. Their music was excellent, ranging from quiet psychedelic to reggae, and heavy rock. Roger That are undoubtedly amazing live, proving with their performance that they had a real sense of energy and making the show worth watching from start to finish.

No discredit to either of supporting groups who were both very musical, tight and diverse, but Kora was the reason we were here after all. Opening with older songs Burning and See Me, they then segued to the newly released music from their self-titled album. Flow was all the more impressive live when the entire band froze mid song, and remained motionless to then start again in perfect timing. An unexpected dub cover of Drowning Pools Bodies delighted the audience immensely. Kora’s performance all round was amazing; showcasing their diverse styles, and musical talents, with several of the band members often swapping seats on instruments and vocals to highlight their versatile musicianship. The solo performances by members also nicely rounded out their set to keep an undulating energy for the crowd. Always a band whose live show is highly rated, Kora had the crowd in a frenzy very quickly; keeping the audience spellbound with their music and talent. Their gratitude was apparent as they thanked the vastly outnumbered Aussies for their attendance, while also showing their appreciation to the profusion of Kiwi’s in the room.

The raucous shouts of ‘Kora’ from the audience encouraged the family of brothers to quickly return to the stage – something to be expected really, since they hadn’t come all the way over the ditch for nothing. Politician from their debut EP Volume was a very familiar tune with the audience, with the entire room joining in with the lyrics; to be followed by an unrecogniseable, though very much enjoyed tune that had a very strong drum n’ bass feel. Leaving the stage once more, the crowd had expected this as the finale but were pleasantly surprised with their return. Taking to the stage again they performed the traditional Hakka; their calls and movements arousing the memories of a small nation’s pride and love in their home country. This truly was an amazing night, with the memory of Kora promising to draw me back anytime the chance is available.