The Offspring’s one-off concert on Sunday night (24 November) at Melbourne’s iconic Forum Theatre for Always Live 2024 was a night of pure punk rock magic. This was the only concert they played on their trip to Australia – and it attracted fans from all over the country.
From the moment the Californian legends took the stage, the energy was electric, with front-man Dexter Holland and guitarist Noodles leading the charge in a setlist that spanned decades of the group’s hits.
Opening with the crowd-pumping anthem “Come Out And Play” the band quickly set the tone for the night, delivering classics like “All I Want”, “Spare Me The Details”, “Why Don’t You Get A Job?” “Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)” and “The Kids Aren’t Alright.”
Fans also enjoyed fresh material from their latest album, Supercharged, including the first and second singles from the album “Make It All Right” and “Light It Up,” proving the band’s ability to blend nostalgia with contemporary vigour.
The banter between Dexter and Noodles was a highlight of the evening, as they riffed off one another (quite literally). They repeatedly expressed their love for Melbourne, Melbourne audiences and the local live music scene. Noodles told us that he loved the venue and was last at The Forum two years ago as an audience member watching the Pixies play. And let’s face it, Forum is one of Melbourne’s most spectacular buildings, inside and out.
Noodles – who gets his nickname from his constant “noodling” on his guitar – treated us to a medley of iconic riffs, including nods to “Iron Man” and “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” showcased the band’s playful side, while the Ramones cover “Blitzkrieg Bop” was a communal sing-along highlight.
The Forum’s intimate setting amplified the experience, with its grandeur juxtaposing the raw energy on stage. The audience was electrified and fully engaged, shouting lyrics and moshing away. Giant beachballs were set into the crowd and tossed around for “Why Don’t You Get A Job?” and dispatched again fairly efficiently.
The two-hour set ended on a euphoric note, closing with “Self Esteem” c leaving attendees buzzing and in no doubt that The Offspring still reign supreme as punk rock royalty.
This special Melbourne performance was part of Always Live, a 17-day celebration of live music in Victoria, and it embodied the festival’s spirit by creating unforgettable moments for music lovers.
If you missed out – and it appears many people were left disappointed after tickets sold out in 30 seconds – the band has announced an arena tour that will bring them back to Melbourne in May, playing at Rod Laver Arena with the presale beginning this Thursday 28 November.
