The rise of Playlunch has been something to behold. The group, headed by Liam Bell, has been on a hugely upward trajectory this year, with their latest album ‘Sex Ed’ being incredibly well received by fans. As part of their national tour, they arrived at Manning Bar where it was so jam packed that it was almost impossible to breathe. But this was very much the vibe of the show, with a party vibe and fervour that I have rarely ever seen before at a gig. It was something to behold.
The band came on just after 10pm, by which point the crowd had treated themselves to more than a few beverages and were absolutely raring to go. The energy in the room was electric, to the point of almost being trance-like. From the very first song, the crowd knew every word and sang all of Bell’s lines back at him to the point that even he was stunned.
But what is it that makes this band so special and has resulted in such a meteoric rise into sold-out headline gigs? In a word, relatability. The band combines Aussie larrikinism with surprisingly incisive commentary on social issues that touch everyday Australians. From real estate apps to athletics carnivals and awkward sex education classes, the group harnessed seminal experiences that are uniquely and quintessentially Australian. Musically and stylistically, there is very much an 80s vibe to everything that the band does but the themes that the band touches could not be more relevant.
Perhaps in keeping with the Australian (and indeed 80s theme), there is a peculiar parallel to be drawn between Playlunch and The Wiggles (a bizarre comparison I know but hear me out…) The didactic style of storytelling and Aussie charm unite the two but it’s more than that, there are similarities in music, style and approach as well, where the music appears simple but there is a degree of complexity hidden under the surface that engenders connection with the band. Of course, Playlunch’s lyrics are decidedly more adult-themed than The Wiggles but there’s definitely an affinity and a vibe that unites both.
And then there was the crowd. I have never seen a crowd so pumped up at the start of the set and the energy only continued as the band worked through their sophomore album to their biggest hit “Keith”. As the band blasted out their infectious chorus, the audience screamed the words back so loudly it felt as though the building shook. The sea of “No Hat No Play” branded hats around the room looked back at the band in adulation. It was a fantastic moment.
The band closed out the night with a cover of “It’s Raining Men” which had the crowd bouncing around before the band disappeared off into the mist. This was a superb concert and one that those in the audience will remember for a long time. It feels as though this band is still on the rise and will continue to do even bigger and better things. There will be many watching closely…
Rating: ★★★★1/2
Playlunch – Manning Bar – 13th September 2025
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