[Gig Review] SHINEDOWN (US) & BUSH (UK), COAST ARCADE (NZ) @ JOHN CAIN ARENA (AU), 25.09.26.
Words
Mal Keecher
Photography/Footage:
Kaza.black_photography (@Kaza.black_photography)
Presented by:
Venue:
The setting was Melbourne's John Cain Arena on a cool Spring evening, featuring three bands I have now experienced live somehow only for the first time. Tonight's feature event included hours of rock, indie-rock and post-grunge that spans three decades of music releases relished and reveled in by a multi-generational audience.
The decision to add New Zealand's Coast Arcade as opening band for this tour was evidently a sound one. I am surely not alone in appreciating the plethora of killer songs from their 2025 self-titled debut album including 'Afterthought', 'Greener', 'Cycles', 'City Limits', 'Acetone', 'Baited'. Coast Arcade are evidently making waves with their 90s/2000s inspired indie rock that resonates well with a contemporary audience. At times, their female-fronted band emoted and conveyed and conjured hints of Superjesus and Garbage, albeit possessing a more organic, earthy grounded feel. Certainly, this is one modern band to follow, and naturally their popularity online matches their engaging live performance.
The noticeably youthful and energetic Gavin Rossdale presented as a timeless example of what is possible when you genuinely love the music, the fans and the process of touring. Even at age 60, Rossdale displayed an enviable vigor comparable to a frontman of 30 years prior.
"It's great to be here, let's have some fun" Rossdale said as they began with 'Everything Zen'.
The relatively intimate space of JCA, especially in GA standing, provided a pleasant ambiance coupled with a crisp PA and a receptive crowd. The applause between songs is one of genuine gratitude and nostalgic elation. Rossdale closely engaged with fans early on, during 'Quicksand' where he stepped down to intermittently interact with fans up front.
'Machinehead' from their 1994 album Sixteen Stone received a roaring reception along with 'All Things Must Change', 'The Chemicals Between us' and 'Little Things'.
Rossdale encouraged folks to shine a light for the heralding of the famed and iconic 'Glycerine' that is retrospectively synonymous with so many people's initial exposure to Bush. This was a magical moment, as Rossdale sang this nostalgic gem with the same emotion and feeling I remember it possessing. This was the pinnacle of their set for me, as the performance seemed to resonate and reverberate via this crunchy guitar-driven affective experience. Rossdale alternated between acapella and electric guitar with vocals for full effect, as we breathed in the special moment.
The band rejoined Rossdale for a change in tempo with 'Human Sand', and their seasoned skill shined through once more. Rossdale and band continually entertained with playful energy, seemingly gaining traction as the set went on with songs like 'Flowers on a Grave'.
It was during this song that Rossdale unexpectedly began a lengthy walk and singing tour of the arena stopping for high fives and handshakes, rousing fans' delight along the way. Closely followed by a spotlight, all in attendance were watching with glee at the novel spectacle.
The heavier part of the set ensued as the energy was lifted higher with 'More Than Machines', and other iconic songs 'Comedown' and 'Swallowed'.
"Let's do this together, let's finish strong," Rossdale insisted, while several Gen Y attendees on shoulders beamed with excitement at such a privileged occasion.
The half time entertainment was provided by a suited person wearing a TV set for a head dancing to the 80s classic #1 hit 'Sledgehammer' by Peter Gabriel. Who needs Kylie when you have the 80s MTV Sledgehammer.
Shinedown announced themselves with an exhilirating onslaught of riffs, drums, bass and the first of many flurries of flames fired from the floor. Kicking off with 'Safe And Sound', Shinedown lived up to expectations immediately, with frontman Brent Smith's vocals clear and tight, backed by a cohesive band who propelled their performance unrelentingly.
Smith's showmanship highlights a seasoned performer highly capable of engaging his audience. The shine and showmanship continued with 'Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom-Lay Boom)'. The crowd frenzy created here was accentuated by popping pyrotechnics which became nothing short of exuberant.
"It's only ever gonna get crazier from here" added Smith.
Smith's powerful vocals were on full display tonight on songs including 'Fly from the Inside'. 'How Did You Love' and '45' were overall standout songs, and by 10pm Smith was showcasing his strong rock vocals like he was competing for a trophy he had clearly already won on the powerful 'Devil'. This song was spectacular and the epitome of a flawless, high-octane performance, with persistent flames for dramatic effect.
"We waited sixteen years to be back here, this is your night" Smith offered this mostly millenial bunch in efforts to get everyone moving.
"I count to three, you jump like your life depends on it" Smith enthused before most people lifted their feet and 'Enemies' was played.
'Cut The Cord' became the height of Shinedown's set, being one of my personal favourites adjacent to 'Monsters'.
The tour continues with two more shows at Adelaide Sunday 27/9 and Tuesday 29/9 sure to be as thrilling and epic as tonight. Get your tix via DestroyAllLines here.
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