Photos by Isabella Appell
Last Thursday, the historic Belasco in Los Angeles transformed into a swirling vortex of kaleidoscopic sound and light as Pond, the Australian psychedelic rock powerhouse, took the stage. Known for their eclectic blend of glam rock, funk, and cosmic psychedelia, Pond delivered a performance that was nothing short of mesmerising, reaffirming their place as one of the genre’s most electrifying live acts.
From the moment frontman Nick Allbrook strutted onto the stage, clad in a shimmering outfit that didn’t not resemble a frog, the energy in the room was palpable. Opening with “Daisy,” the band set the tone for the night with its infectious groove and soaring melodies, immediately drawing the crowd into their vibrant, otherworldly soundscape.
Pond brought something truly distinctive to the table, offering a masterful blend of dance-pop energy and psychedelic depth that felt as fresh as it was immersive. Several times during the show, the sound seemed to take on a life of its own, surrounding the audience in a sonic embrace that was absolutely electrifying. The interplay between Jay Watson’s swirling synths and Shiny Joe Ryan’s intricate guitar lines created a lush, enveloping atmosphere that was impossible to resist.
The setlist was a mix of tracks spanning their extensive discography, from fan favourites such as “Paint Me Silver” and “Sweep Me Off My Feet” to deeper cuts that showcased the band’s experimental roots. Each song was a journey in itself, propelled by the band’s knack for weaving irresistible grooves with mind-bending textures. A particular highlight was an extended, jammed-out rendition of “Man It Feels Like Space Again,” during which the band seemed to transcend the confines of the venue, taking the audience on a euphoric ride through the cosmos.
The visuals were as much a part of the experience as the music. A hypnotic display of vibrant colours and abstract shapes danced across the backdrop, perfectly complementing the band’s sound. At times, it felt as if the entire venue had been submerged in a psychedelic dream, with the audience swaying in unison, caught up in the spell.
Allbrook’s charismatic stage presence was a show in itself. He danced with abandon, climbed onto the speakers, and engaged with the crowd in a way that felt both intimate and electric. His vocals were as emotive as ever, effortlessly switching from delicate falsettos to powerful wails that sent shivers through the audience.
Pond’s chemistry as a band was undeniable, each member contributing their unique flair while remaining tightly synchronized. The rhythm section, anchored by Jamie Terry and James Ireland, provided a solid foundation for the band’s expansive sound, driving the music forward with infectious energy.
By the time the encore rolled around, the crowd was in a state of blissful surrender. Pond closed the night with “The Weather,” a poignant and anthemic track that left the audience basking in its emotional resonance.
In a city that hosts a myriad of live music experiences, Pond’s performance at the Belasco stood out as a celebration of artistic freedom and sonic exploration. For those lucky enough to attend, it was a night to remember—an exhilarating escape into Pond’s boundless musical universe.
