Review and Photography by Skye Sampson

@for_the_love_of_gigs

Left On Seen is Adelaide’s Queer pop punk pioneers redefining the stage. In Adelaide’s pop punk scene, they are a force with their energetic tunes and unapologetic embrace of queerness and neurodivergence. With a penchant for glitter, unconventional storytelling, and theatrical flair, this three-piece defies all norms. Left On Seen brings a boisterous and cheeky yet energetic vibe to their performance. Ashlea and Will’s ADHD-infused energy manifests in a riot of make-up and glitter. With unfiltered authenticity and unpredictability Left On Seen had a few technical difficulties with Ashlea’s In Ear Monitor malfunctioning, Will’s wireless pack not working and Bruce’s (live drummer) taking an unexpected fall, the band were true to their nature and handled each hurdle with grace with a little help from fellow bands playing. The guys from Forever Ends Here tossing a guitar cable onstage to Will.

Beyond all the glitter, Left On Seen set themselves apart from other pop punk bands by being intimate with the audience, the joy seen on Ashlea’s face is proof when she gets amongst the crowd singing and dancing. Breaking down the age barrier is part of what Left On Seen aim for at their gigs. It was evident seeing so many young faces in the front row, from babies to young adults, all invited to join in. For this show, their merch even included a kids pack that the younger ages could enjoy.

In a world where pop punk can seem all the same, Left On Seen boldly stands out as a queer pop punk beacon, pushing the boundaries and injecting a refreshing dose of authenticity into the Adelaide music scene.

With their first song on being ‘Keys’, they energised the crowd as they swept through to another original ‘No Vibes’, with a cover of the hit song by Fall Out Boy, ‘Take Over, The Break’s Over’ to follow the patrons were singing their hearts out. Their final two songs ‘Kill Bill’ and their debut single ‘Life Support’ can be found on Spotify. This being evident with both songs being sung back at the three-piece.

Each song contributes to a seamless blend of genres and keeps the audience engaged.

Left On Seen have only just begun to make waves in the Australian music industry, so have a big year ahead of them in 2024. They’re definitely a group to keep your eye on.