Perth Comedy Festival | Axis of Awesome | Won’t Ever Not Stop Giving Up | Perth Town Hall | Until Sat 14 May 9:30pm | ★★★★
Comedic trio Axis of Awesome are back on the road for the first time since lead singer Jordan Raskopoulos shared her experience of being transgender.
Taking to the stage it’s clear that fans have embraced the singer’s announcement as there were loud woops and hollers when Jordan appeared. The band quickly addressed the issue in their own comedic way, cleverly sending a clear message about acceptance and respect. ‘The Elephant in the Room’ quickly addressed all the common questions about gender transitioning.
In a recent interviews Jordan has said that her transgender journey is mentioned in the show, but as much time is spent singing about octopodes. The octopus song is definitely in the show, but the topics of transphobia and gender do probably get more space than sea creatures. Which is great, because it’s refreshing to hear gender discussions from a comedy perspective rather than in the form of a academic lecture.
Also in the show there a fun smattering of bad country, several moments of homage to works of Will Smith, deep analysis of the creation of KFC, odes to hats, and a deconstruction of how dance music is put together.
The trio of Jordan, Lee and Benny each have their moment to shine during the show which plays up to each of their individual talents.
One of the show’s highlights in a new song that analyses the current trends in young people’s favourite music. Taking aim at One Direction, Fun and Katy Perry, the comedy duo outline the proliferation of military drums, uplifting vocals and fast verses that dominate the Top 50.
Also in the show is some well known tunes from the bands 10 year long career. Axis of Awesome will probably be playing all the songs that use the same four chords for the rest of their career, but they change it up and add in new tunes and references. Even if your familiar with their most famous work, it remains fresh and fun.
This show was a lot of fun, filled with laughs and definitely worth seeing.
Axis of Awesome’s show is at the Perth Town Hall for the Perth Comedy Festival until Saturday.
Graeme Watson
