» ‘Dangerous and alive’ – Better Lovers in Sydney: review and photos Something You Said

‘Dangerous and alive’ – Better Lovers in Sydney: review and photos

January 27, 2026

American hardcore supergroup Better Lovers made their long-awaited Australian debut in Sydney on January 25, tearing through Manning Bar with a show that felt equal parts celebration and controlled chaos. Built on decades of combined experience from genre-defining acts Every Time I Die and The Dillinger Escape Plan, the band delivered a performance that was as explosive as it was polished.

Opening the night were Sydney favourites Totally Unicorn, who wasted no time setting the tone. Their trademark enthusiasm and vigour hit the room just as the crowd began to swell, instantly injecting energy and movement into the venue. It was a lively and confident start that warmed the room up perfectly.

Blind Girls followed, bringing an emotive and raw intensity that noticeably shifted the atmosphere. Their powerful sound and visceral delivery saw crowd engagement spike, with the fervour steadily building as the set progressed. It was a gripping performance that leaned heavily into feeling as much as force.

Hailing from Bristol, Split Chain offered a change of pace with their pop-punk sound, cleverly laced with breakdowns that kept the pit active. Clearly thrilled to be in Australia for the first time (despite the heatwave during the day of the show), the young band formed in 2023 played with the wide-eyed excitement of a group still soaking it all in. Their enthusiasm was infectious and their gratitude unmistakable.

When Better Lovers finally hit the stage, they ripped the place apart. The band’s exciting energy, insane vocals and undeniable showmanship filled the room from the first note. Frontman Greg Puciato proved once again why he’s regarded as one of heavy music’s most commanding performers. He worked the crowd effortlessly, delivering a vocal masterclass that moved seamlessly between sky-high screams and guttural growls, all while maintaining complete control of the room. A walk during their set took me past punters of all ages, backgrounds and sweat levels, showing how diverse Better Lovers reach is and how important they are to the heavy music scene.

Supported by razor-sharp musicianship, including Will Putney and the weight of their collective legacy, Better Lovers sounded tight, dangerous and alive. This debut Australian tour stop wasn’t just a victory lap for seasoned veterans – it was a statement.

Better Lovers aren’t here to relive past glories; they’re here to build something new, louder and more volatile than ever.