Live music is a huge gift to us all, and the return of live acts to Adelaide has been a boon for more than just the casual Fringe goer. The power of music to draw together individuals from all walks of life has been hailed for centuries, and it bears repeating here.
So it’s no surprise that many of us would be looking around during festival season for something to scratch that collective itch. Look no further, as Adelaide’s Aussie-Latino community is home to one of the most entertaining rock acts on the local scene.
LATITUDE 0° is composed of four musicians hailing from Columbia and Venezuela, close-knit friends with a shared passion for Latino rock (aka “Rock en Español”). This show is a two-hour tribute to the legendary Argentine rock band Soda Stereo. While they might be unknown in broader Australia, for many Latin communities their music is an iconic cultural touchstone. The show is non-English in its entirety, but don’t fear if your Spanish isn’t up to scratch: the music certainly is!
Drawing direct inspiration from the likes of The Cure, The Police and INXS, the music of Soda Stereo is as legendary as it is entertaining. I immediately picked up on these influences through the soaring guitars and new wave rhythms. The band knew how to capture and command the stage at every turn with what I was assured were very faithful covers of the originals. The language barrier was the last thing on my mind as I was swept away by an energetic crowd that bellowed out the lyrics to every song.
Each member of LATITUDE 0° brings their own personal flair to the performance; lead singer and guitarist Alexis sings with a Lenny Kravitz-level swagger; Jorge on drums brings cheerful camaraderie along with his percussion; Juan wields his guitar with an impossible level of instrumental control over his strings; and Cesar’s fluent, precise work on the bass rounds out a vibrant rock experience that feels straight out of a festival circuit. Special guest Juancho on keyboard brings a harmonic edge to the music that exemplifies its late 80s/early 90s influences.
The Lion Arts Centre has held many examples of rock royalty over the years, and the acoustics it lends to Latitude 0’s grungy new wave style is exemplary. The generous stage size, gorgeous lighting and ample floor space make for an unforgettable live show.
Whether you’re looking for something off the beaten path, or just a diehard fan of rock regardless of its origin, LATITUDE 0° bring a fierce passion and collective sense of celebration for their craft well-worthy of the big stage,
Make yourself time to see these guys live, you won’t regret it.
FIVE STARS *****
Reviewed by Justine Hall