Quadeca | 170 Russell | Melbourne | 5th May
I first became aware of the artist now known as Quadeca around 7 or 8 years ago, when he was making YouTube videos about blending styles of rap together, or amateur diss tracks targeting other music adjacent YouTubers. He then fell off my radar until around 2023, when I saw him take part in one of his regular guest appearances on the online music quiz show/podcast ‘Hivemind,’ which is when I started to look more into his recent output.
The ‘YouTube micro-celebrity to successful musician’ pipeline has proven over the years to be a tricky one to navigate. Somehow, though, Quadeca has made the transition from YouTuber to bona fide indie-alternative pop/hip-hop artist flawlessly, using his stature in online alternative culture to bolster his position in the world of ‘real music.’ Based on my (unqualified) assessment of the audience, I’d argue that the majority of fans at the show at 170 Russell in Melbourne last night became aware of Quadeca through his music career first, and only retroactively uncovered his past on YouTube.
Local support Sweet Boy opened the night, with a set of dreamy and emotional shoegaze that at first I was a little unsure was the right fit for a Quadeca support slot— however, the crowd response to the set was fantastic, they were clearly listening attentively and gave the artist their full attention, which was great to see.
Quadeca’s set opened with the beautiful and atmospheric GODSTAINED, from the recent “Vanisher, Horizon Scraper” album. It set the atmosphere of the set perfectly, demonstrating the new folktronica direction of Quadeca’s production, whilst also allowing the on-stage band members a moment in the spotlight. I wasn’t able to find their names credited anywhere online, but they deserve a mention here, because they were magnificent. Having a live band to show off the intricacy and dynamism of much of Quadeca’s music really helped immerse the audience, and brought an extra layer of flair to the performance that would have been sorely missing without it.
Unfortunately, the regular second vocalist and flautist for the band, whose name is Autumn, fell ill during a previous show on the tour up in Brisbane, and wasn’t able to make it down for the Sydney or Melbourne shows. This led to a wholesome moment in the latter half of the set, where Quadeca filmed the audience saying in unison “we love you Autumn!” and cheering her on for a quick recovery. It was quite heartwarming, and very cute.
The highlight of the set for me was the track “THUNDRRR”, also off the “Vanisher, Horizon Scraper” album. The chanting vocals, the also hyperpop elements, the insane lighting, it was certainly a spectacle and definitely a standout moment in an already diverse and engaging set.
Overall, Quadeca’s show at 170 Russell was incredibly enjoyable. It’s rare to see a solo artist at a show this intimate where you’re able to see them flaunt their full spectrum of musical talent and songwriting abilities, as well as appreciate the clear passion for their craft, but when it happens it’s not to be missed. Looking around the room, it was obvious Quadeca’s fans truly appreciate him and the art he’s making, and it’s equally as obvious that Quadeca reciprocates the love. I felt lucky to be in the room last night.