Review of Franz Ferdinand’s performance at The Riverstage in Brisbane

Scottish band Franz Ferdinand graced Australia with their presence at The Riverstage in Brisbane on the 29th of November, 2025, entertaining fans with a blend of new tracks from their latest album, ‘The Human Fear’, and classic hits that have stood the test of time. As someone who experienced the nostalgia of the early 2000s with Kaiser Chiefs the night before, seeing Franz Ferdinand live was a trip down memory lane. The band’s influence on the indie-rock scene left a lasting impact, and their catalog of hits from their first three albums remains as lively and relevant today as it did twenty years ago.

Despite my mid-40s body feeling the effects of dancing like a twenty-something the night before, the muggy weather in Queensland only added to the challenge of getting to the venue on Saturday evening. A brisk walk across the Goodwill Bridge replenished my energy, albeit with some discomfort. Surprisingly, the queue outside The Riverstage was manageable, and I found myself inside the venue relatively quickly, ready to enjoy the show in a spot not far from the stage.

Before Franz Ferdinand took the stage, the audience was treated to a selection of songs played through the PA system. The tunes, including classics like Bowie’s ‘Life On Mars?’ and new tracks from up-and-coming Britpop acts, set the mood for the evening. As the band made a grand entrance with the TV theme ‘Police Squad’, the crowd was electrified and eager to dance the night away.

Kicking off their set with ‘The Dark Of The Matinée’ from their self-titled album, Franz Ferdinand immediately had the audience engaged and singing along. Introducing new tracks like ‘Night Or Day’ seamlessly blended with the band’s signature sound, showcasing their ability to evolve while maintaining their distinctive style. Hits like ‘No You Girls’ and ‘Walk Away’ had the crowd on their feet, singing along enthusiastically to every word.

Throughout the night, the band effortlessly transitioned between their new material and classic hits, keeping the energy high and the audience entertained. Tracks like ‘The Doctor’ and ‘Do You Want To’ showcased Franz Ferdinand’s versatility and ability to engage a crowd. The infectious energy of the audience, coupled with lead singer Alex Kapranos’ charismatic stage presence, made for a memorable performance.

As the night progressed, songs like ‘Evil Eye’ and ‘Black Eyelashes’ from the latest album delighted fans with their unique blend of sounds. Classics like ‘Darts Of Pleasure’ and ‘Michael’ had the audience reminiscing about the early days of the band, with the crowd clapping along and dancing with abandon. The band’s ability to seamlessly weave new and old tracks together created a dynamic and engaging experience for everyone in attendance.

In conclusion, Franz Ferdinand’s performance at The Riverstage in Brisbane was a testament to their enduring relevance and infectious energy. With a setlist that catered to both die-hard fans and newcomers, the band proved that they still know how to captivate an audience after all these years. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering their music for the first time, seeing Franz Ferdinand live is an experience that should not be missed.