Last night I attended Perth Festival to enjoy the unique sounds of Egyptian-Australian music producer Moktar.
The East Perth Power Station made a striking venue for the bass heavy beats and traditional Arabic influences, blending industrial history with a raw, atmospheric energy and deep rolling basslines contrasted with intricate darbuka rhythms. Meanwhile, melodic samples floated above pulsating synths within the walls of the towering heritage-listed structure, with its exposed steel beams and cavernous interior, creating an immersive backdrop for the performance.
People from all walks of life danced under the playful light show and lasers, elevating the performance from beginning to end. The lighting design enhanced the atmosphere, with warm, golden hues reflecting the Middle Eastern influences in his music.
Moktar’s set was nicely balanced. His ability to seamlessly weave his Egyptian heritage into a club-ready sound, created an experience that felt both familiar and fresh.
In essence, this event turned the old power station into Perth’s most iconic dance floor. We need to see this space used a lot more! Well done to Perth Festival for giving these old ruins new life. All elements drew the crowd into a hypnotic blend of techno, UK garage, and Middle Eastern percussion which provided something for everyone.
The acoustics in the space were surprisingly effective, with deep bass reverberating off aged brick walls, adding to the intensity of live sets. The lighting design took full advantage of the venue’s scale, casting dramatic shadows and illuminating its architectural details.
As a complete package, with the amazing venue, lighting, sound and performer, I would give this 5 stars.