Live Review: The Killers – Rebel Diamonds Tour 2024 in Melbourne
12 of November 2024 at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Australia
Review by Jeana Thomas
Photography by Chris Phelps
In a city that has witnessed its fair share of iconic rock acts, The Killers’ concert tonight was a reminder that they’re still one of the most electric bands on the planet, even after nearly two decades in the business. The Killers’ Rebel Diamonds show at Rod Laver Arena on the first of three consecutive nights was a celebration not only of the highs, but indeed the bittersweet undercurrents, wrapped in a sound that evolves as iconic as their neon-lit, anthemic melodies, while also commemorating 20 years of Hot Fuss, their wildly popular debut album.
Flowers looks absolutely stunning as he steps out onto the stage in his beautifully tailored black suit, which shimmers with a subtle diamond-like studs, making him look effortlessly stylish and sharp, as if every detail was crafted to perfection.
As the first pulsing electronic beat of ‘Read My Mind’ began reverberating around the arena, we know instantly we are in for a great night and they are here to create an experience, to draw the audience into their world of sweeping synths, driving rhythms and that unmistakable voice of Brandon Flowers, a voice which, all these years on, still carries the same urgent, wistful energy that defined their early hits.
There’s something undeniably magnetic about Flowers, and it’s not just his frontman charisma, though that is certainly part of it. His stage presence is genuine, he is not one of those artists who feels he is performing at you, rather than directly to you. Instead, he offers a window into his emotional landscape, inviting the crowd to walk with him for a couple of hours while sharing in the euphoria and vulnerability that bookmark The Killers’ discography.
The moment The Killers kicks off tonight’s show with “Read My Mind,” we feel the electric buzz of nostalgia hit us like a wave. This track, from their 2006 album Sam’s Town, is one of those anthems that takes us back to the golden days of indie rock, where every lyric feels like a personal diary entry and every chord struck at the heart of what it meant to be young and full of dreams. As the opening riff echoes through the venue, Brandon Flowers’ voice cuts through the air with that hauntingly beautiful mix of hope and heartbreak.
But just when we think it can’t get any better, the pulsing intro to “Somebody Told Me” kicks in. Released in 2003, this song blasts onto the scene with its infectious energy and cryptic lyrics. It’s the one we can’t help but scream along to, the one where everyone in the crowd is jumping in sync as if we are all part of one massive celebration of confusion and excitement.
The mood shifts as “Spaceman” comes alive with its otherworldly synths and dreamy beats. You’re no longer on Earth – you’ve just been launched into a wild, cosmic journey that feels both surreal and energising. This track, off Day & Age, has that feeling of standing on the edge of something huge, while also being caught in the pull of something mysterious and untouchable.
Then comes “Smile Like You Mean It,” a song that perfectly captures that bittersweet feeling of looking back on the past, knowing that some things can never quite be relived, but still finding beauty in the memories. We feel the whole crowd sinking into the moment, letting the bittersweet lyrics and melodic groove wrap around us like a comforting hug.
During the show, Brandon takes a moment to acknowledge a fan he met earlier that day at breakfast, a gentleman celebrating his birthday, who made a special request for “My God.” The band, being the absolute rockstars they are, dive into the track with enthusiasm, turning this fan’s special moment into one of the most heartwarming highlights of the night.
Brandon is absolutely buzzing tonight, grinning from ear to ear and throwing so much energy into every song that it felt like he’s feeding off the crowd’s excitement.
The Killers bring the house down with a thrilling cover of Icehouse’s “Electric Blue,” with the Australian lead vocalist Iva Davies joining them on stage and the crowd is electrified as they effortlessly merged their signature sound with the iconic 80s synth-pop magic, creating a moment of pure Aussie rock nostalgia that has everyone dancing and singing along like it was 1987.
As the night winds down, the energy doesn’t stop. “Your Side of Town” brings an unforgettable wave of emotion as Brandon sings about longing and finding your place in the world. “Boy” follows, with its driving rhythms and rock-solid beats that leave you feeling like you’re on top of the world. Then “Human” hits, and suddenly we are swept in its thought-provoking lyricism and infectious chorus, a perfect moment of collective introspection.
And finally, of course, they give us “Mr. Brightside.” We can practically feel the entire venue pulse with excitement as those iconic opening chords ring out. It’s the song that defines an entire generation, the one that brings everyone together to sing at the top of their lungs, reminding us all that no matter how many years pass, “Mr. Brightside” will never get old.
Tonight, The Killers proved once again why they’re one of the best live bands in the world: a perfect mix of nostalgia, energy and passion that leaves us craving more.
The band is tight and precise. Ronnie Vannucci Jr. proved a powerhouse drummer, his rhythms providing a bedrock upon which the songs could build; while bassist Mark Stoermer’s playing is understated, yet powerful, anchoring the more expansive moments with a surefooted groove. As ever, the work of guitarist Dave Keuning is masterful in effortlessly navigating between the anthemic choruses and more delicate, atmospheric passages. The Killers’ backup singers are a driving force of talent, effortlessly adding depth and soul to every track, their harmonies soaring and perfectly complementing Brandon’s energy, making the performance feel even more dynamic and alive.
Their stage is a visual feast, bringing a vibrant, almost cinematic atmosphere to life. The backdrops are a stunning mix of neon lights and retro-style graphics, evoking the feel of a neon-lit desert town straight out of a cool ’80s film. Huge, colourful scenes flickered between explosive bursts of bright, dynamic colours (as well as confetti), creating an electric energy that matched the band’s infectious sound. There are moments when it feels like stepping into a dreamscape, with shimmering lights and bold, graphic patterns dancing along to the rhythm. It is a full-on sensory experience, with every detail adding to the immersive vibe of the night.
One of the real standout moments in the evening came when Flowers took a brief respite to address the crowd. He reflected on how much time they’d spent in Melbourne, thanking the fans for their warmth and energy and his appreciation for always being there for them.
What strike throughout the night is how down-to-earth The Killers have stayed despite their massive success. There is no detachment or pretentiousness attached to their performance. He could easily have indulged in the persona of a rock star, but instead intent on creating some shared experience. When he takes the stage, it is as if Flowers is working his hardest to impress nobody.
The Killers delivered a show that was nothing short of a rock ‘n’ roll masterpiece, blending high-octane energy, flawless musicianship and an undeniable connection with the crowd, leaving us all breathless and in awe and if you are going to see them soon, you are in for a real treat.
Their setlist unfolded like a musical journey, each song a distinctive chapter, taking fans on a ride through their iconic soundscape.
The Killers are continuing their tour of Australia for the next two nights at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. Tickets are available from Frontier Touring.
Sheldon Ang Media would like to thank Frontier Touring and The Killers for the Accreditation.
About the Writer: Originally hailing from Western Australia, Jeana Thomas now thrives in the vibrant city of Melbourne. Amidst the hustle of her role in a prominent teaching hospital, she also navigates the dynamic world of entrepreneurship as the owner of a medical transcription company. Beyond her professional endeavours, Jeana finds solace and joy in the rhythm of music, the allure of travel and the artistry of photography, with a particular passion for wildlife photography.
About the Photographer: From www.chrisphelps.com – “Chris Phelps is a photographer, director, and producer born and raised in Texas. He received his BFA in Photography from the School of Visual Arts in NYC before working as staff photographer for Atlantic Records. He currently splits his time between Los Angeles, Texas, and Nashville where he works in the music, fashion, and film industries.”
About Sheldon Ang Media: Sheldon Ang Media (est. May 2022) have been accredited to more than 140 of the hottest acts including Coldplay (Perth), Taylor Swift (ERAS Tour in Sydney), KISS, Iron Maiden, RHCP, P!NK and The Kid LAROI with reviews shared by the likes of Belinda Carlisle, UB40, Delta Goodrem, The Wiggles and Toni Childs on social media. The founder has interviewed rockers Suzi Quatro, Ace Frehley (KISS), John Steel (The Animals), Frank Ferrer (Guns N Roses), Phil X (Bon Jovi), Andrew Farris (INXS) plus over 70 artists. SAM is also a music journalist on the Triple M Radio network.
