The Axis of Awesome – Won’t Ever Not Stop Giving Up
Image: Photo by Alex Gabbott.
It began with the kind of throbbing piano energy you might expect, and the crowd filling Sydney’s foremost alternative comedy venue were already whooping and cheering as keyboardist/vocalist Benny and guitarist/sometimes far-back vocalist Lee entered the stage and kicked off the show.
“…Things are a little different, from the last time we were here. One of us has been through some changes, might seem strange but it’s nothing to fear,” crooned Benny, as lead singer Jordan emerged onto the stage to be met with an even bigger uproar of applause – beaming at the crowd in a stylish leopard print dress, boots and stockings.
Benny continued: “…So it’s time to address the rumour, do it with a sense of humour, so there’s no mistaking identity for a costume –– yes, Lee is bald!”
You see, this run at the Sydney International Comedy Festival not only marks The Axis of Awesome’s 10th anniversary of performing award-winning musical comedy and parody songs, but this is their first tour since Jordan has come out as a transgender woman (so really, it’s only fitting that I first commented on her outfit rather than her technique – ba-dum-tish!).
The band immediately addressed the change, in their signature tongue-in-cheek style, clearing up any confusion. They proceeded to do what they do best – presenting a mixed bag musical jokes in a fluid and uproariously hilarious style.
Old favourites and YouTube smash hits such as ‘Bird Plane’ and a slightly updated ‘Four Chord Song’ were met with just as much applause and laughter as ever. Much of their humour is silly for the sake of it, but their newer material proves they can also address gender issues and inequality with the same light hearted quirk and sharp wit.
Their comedy is matched by their musical prowess, Jordan and Benny’s voices are as radiatingly strong as ever and it their instrumental talent is up to scratch – the only minor complaint would be that the sound would occasionally drown out small sections of their no doubt on-point lyrics.
While the comedy circuit has long been dominated by acts that rely on humour that marginalises, this band has for a long time been a welcome breath of fresh air (without depriving us of any dick jokes). And in a world where Caitlin Jenner is the most well known representative of the transgender community, we need more gorgeous people like Jordan in the spotlight.
The Axis of Awesome are a trio of adorable musical geeks, and an act that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. (AM)
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The Axis of Awesome will follow up their smashing run at The Giant Dwarf Theatre with a one-off show at The Concourse.
May 7, 9pm. The Concourse, 409 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood. $35.27-$39.35+bf. Tickets & info: sydneycomedyfest.com or ticketek.com.au
