Dream pop group Cigarettes After Sex returns to Melbourne for two sold-out shows at Rod Laver Arena as part of their ‘X’s’ world tour.

There’s no support act tonight but the atmosphere is electric as fans eagerly await the arrival of the band to the stage. They’re welcomed by orchestral music and the trio emerge from the darkness in a smoky haze to set the mood of their ethereal sound.

This tour coincides with the new LP, titled ‘X’s’, which is their first album release in five years. Fittingly they begin with the title track as vocalist Greg Gonzalez begins to sing in his signature hauntingly soft, whispery vocals showcasing precise control and restraint. He delivers introspective lyrics with a strong emotional connection to listeners which perfectly complements the band’s lush, immersive soundscapes with reverb-drenched guitars, gentle bass lines, and minimalistic drumming.

The audience becomes entranced and gets lost in the emotional depth of their sound as they play fan-favourites ‘Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby’, ‘Tejano Blue’ and ‘Sunsetz’ exploring the nostalgic sounds reminiscent of ambient ’70s and ’80s slow-dance pop ballads. Cigarettes After Sex signature dreamy soundscapes entrance the audience, creating an intimate and almost otherworldly experience.

The band’s chemistry is undeniable, and their performance is purposefully slow with a deliberate tempo that effortlessly flows with a dreamy and reflective quality to create a deeply immersive and captivating live experience. The instrumentation is minimalistic and understated, allowing Gonzalez’ vocals and melodies to take centre stage.

As the night draws to a close, they save some of their biggest songs ‘Heavenly’, ‘K’ and ‘Apocolypse’ to the end as disco balls become alight throughout the arena before a big encore of ‘Opera House’ to leave fans in a state of blissful reverie.

Words by Michael Prebeg