Review – Royel Otis, Marble Factory, November 25th

Australian duo, Royel Madden and Otis Pavlovic, are currently winding down the final stretch of their extensive US, European, and UK tour. Having captivated audiences worldwide with their viral covers of Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s “Murder on the Dancefloor” and the Cranberries’ “Linger,” the pair traded the sun-kissed shores of Australia for the cooler, rainier climes of the UK. A highlight of their sold-out tour was a memorable performance in Bristol.

Their debut studio album, released in February of this year, showcases their knack for crafting infectious melodies that evoke the carefree spirit of their Australian roots, intertwined with a contemporary edge. The album’s tracks, characterized by their laid-back vibe and sunny dispositions, have resonated with listeners, solidifying the duo’s rising star status.

The Bristol gig, initially scheduled for The Trinity Centre, was relocated to the larger The Marble Factory due to overwhelming demand. The venue was packed to capacity, with eager fans filling every corner. The energy was palpable as the duo launched into their set, opening with a series of upbeat tracks that immediately engaged the crowd. “Heading For The Door,” “Adored,” and “Daisy Chain” had the audience singing along, word for word, creating a vibrant and communal atmosphere.

The stage setup was visually striking, with hazy smoke machines, bold lighting, and a giant shrimp serving as a quirky backdrop. Royel and Otis’ effortless stage presence and chemistry were evident as they navigated through their set, exuding a sense of camaraderie and shared passion for music. The interaction with the audience was natural and genuine, fostering a connection that extended beyond the performance.

The band’s ability to seamlessly blend their musical influences and create a distinctive sound has propelled them into the spotlight. Their consistent presence on streaming platforms, radio, and social media has further solidified their fan base. As they continue to evolve and push creative boundaries, it’s clear that Royel Otis is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. With their unique blend of talent, charisma, and infectious energy, they are poised for even greater success in the years to come.

Photographer / Reviewer | + posts

Role: I’m a professional photographer and I love using both digital and film formats.

Qualification: I have two university degrees in photography from UWE in Bristol, BA (hons) and a Master’s.

Available for: Gig shoots, festival shoots, portrait photoshoots, album and single cover shoots and behind the scenes photography.

First attended gig: When I was at school, we had an evening called “Bands Night”. At the ages of 14/15, quite a few of my friends were in a band, playing the drums, guitar and vocals. I would always go and support these nights as I was their biggest fan, but also because staying out until 9:30pm on a school night was wild. These are the earliest gigs I can remember and I remember them so fondly.

First gig shot: BAD SOUNDS! What an impressive show it was.

Dream gig: Heavy question. There are so many and I feel very lucky to have already photographed the likes of Self-Esteem and Arlo Parks. Photographing a Prince concert would have been magic. Right now, I’ll say that photographing U2, during an intimate performance somewhere in Ireland would be more than a dream come true.”

About Ciara Hillyer 7 Articles
Role: I’m a professional photographer and I love using both digital and film formats. Qualification: I have two university degrees in photography from UWE in Bristol, BA (hons) and a Master’s. Available for: Gig shoots, festival shoots, portrait photoshoots, album and single cover shoots and behind the scenes photography. First attended gig: When I was at school, we had an evening called “Bands Night”. At the ages of 14/15, quite a few of my friends were in a band, playing the drums, guitar and vocals. I would always go and support these nights as I was their biggest fan, but also because staying out until 9:30pm on a school night was wild. These are the earliest gigs I can remember and I remember them so fondly. First gig shot: BAD SOUNDS! What an impressive show it was. Dream gig: Heavy question. There are so many and I feel very lucky to have already photographed the likes of Self-Esteem and Arlo Parks. Photographing a Prince concert would have been magic. Right now, I’ll say that photographing U2, during an intimate performance somewhere in Ireland would be more than a dream come true.”

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