Words by Josh Ma.

Photography by Hudson Reed.

Rex Orange County, the musical sensation whose real name is Alex O'Connor, graced the stage of the iconic Hordern Pavilion for a sold-out concert that left the audience captivated and spellbound. 

The night commenced with a soft light enveloping the stage as Rex's voice echoed through the venue, inviting us on a journey with his opening track Rex, from his debut album in an acoustic opening. This soulful beginning set the tone for an evening filled with raw emotion and musical brilliance. As the backdrop dropped, the stage exploded with flashes of light and colour, revealing Rex and his band in all their glory as Rex danced with burst of energy to the delight of the crowd.

The second track, Television / So Far So Good, from sophomore album Apricot Princess, infused an upbeat energy into the atmosphere. "You can call me Alex baby, welcome to my life," Rex declared, forging an immediate connection with the audience. It was a statement that encapsulated the essence of the night - a personal invitation to join him on a musical odyssey.

What followed was a journey through Rex Orange County's discography, spanning multiple albums and showcasing his versatility as an artist. 10/10 from Pony and Amazing from Who Cares? had the crowd moving to their infectious beats. The setlist was a carefully curated blend of hits like The Shade and cult favourites like Sunflower. Each song felt like a chapter in Rex's life, and the audience was eager to turn the pages.

Amid the energetic tracks, there were moments of serenity as Rex took the stage alone, offering heartfelt renditions of softer tracks such as Untitled and Corduroy Dreams. These intimate moments allowed his lyrical prowess and emotional depth to shine through. The audience swayed to the gentle melodies, fully immersed in the storytelling.

The spectacle reached its zenith with Best Friend and Loving is Easy, showering the crowd with confetti and infectious joy as he encouraged the crowd to put their phones away and soak in the pulsating energy which erupted as the pyrotechnics draped the crowd. The synergy between Rex and his band was palpable, and the Hordern Pavilion pulsated with energy.

Yet, it was the encore that truly defined the evening. Rex Orange County returned to the stage, ready to take us on one final emotional journey. The slow jam, Pluto Projector, was the chosen vessel, and it showcased his dynamic range and complexity as a singer-songwriter. With every note, he transported us to a place of introspection and nostalgia.

What made this moment even more special, was the audience's participation. Every voice in the room came together in perfect harmony, creating a powerful and emotional crescendo. It was as if we had all shared the same memories that brought the song to life. Rex's ability to lead the crowd through this ballad was a testament to his showmanship and his unique ability to forge a deep connection with his listeners.

From the opening notes to the encore, every moment was filled with magic and emotion. Rex Orange County's music had transcended the boundaries of the stage, becoming a shared memory for all those fortunate enough to be there.