Vlads Live @ Fun Time Pony 31/1/26 - Disco Helmets, Shoeys and Surf‑Rock Swagger: Vlads Light Up Canberra

 

Vlads — an emerging four‑piece indie/surf‑rock outfit from Queensland consisting of Kai Vladusic (vocals, guitar), Callum Watson (drums), Edin Duke (bass, vocals), and Matthew Norrish (guitar).  — Vlads rolled into Fun Time Pony with the kind of confidence and charisma that tells you straight away you’re in for a night. They even hit the stage ten minutes early, which honestly set the tone perfectly.

 

From the first chord, it was obvious they weren’t just there to play songs; they were there to perform. The dual‑vocal setup gave the whole set a lively, almost conversational bounce. And then there was Kai Vladusic — the lead singer and, presumably, the Vlad behind Vlads — strutting out in a disco‑ball helmet like a man who’d already decided the night was his. At one point he even instrumented a shoey out of the helmet, completely unprompted. Chaotic, ridiculous, and absolutely entertaining. He might just be the music world’s equivalent to the AFL’s Bailey Smith.

 

Musically, the lads can play. Their guitar work is tight, their hooks are catchy, and they know how to build a groove that gets a room moving. The only noticeable drawback was the contrast in sound once the headliner followed — Vlads’ mix felt thinner and less full, something you’d expect from a newer band still finding their live balance. It didn’t kill the vibe, but the difference was obvious.

 

One of the most endearing parts of the night came after the set. The wild, swaggering stage persona melted away instantly as the band sat at their merch table — calm, friendly, humble & wholesome Queensland boys chatting with fans and selling shirts. The chaos was pure theatre, and they committed to it beautifully.

 

I genuinely enjoyed their whole set — even the tiny moments of cringe that come with a band still shaping their identity. I danced, I sang, I laughed, and not once did it feel like they were phoning it in. And that matters. A great performance can sell a band’s music by about eighty percent more, and The Vlads absolutely get that. They don’t just give you songs; they give you a show.

 

And credit where it’s due: any band that makes the effort to visit Canberra deserves applause. It’s far and few between. But The Vlads didn’t just show up — they seemed excited to be here. That enthusiasm is infectious, and it made their set all the more memorable. The world is Vlads’ oyster, and with more gig time under their belt, they could be anything and we are coming along for the journey! 

 

If you haven’t already, dive into their growing catalogue of fun, catchy tracks. A few to start with:

 

• Suzuki

• Sunshine Love

• Cherry Lipstick

• Waste It on Me

• Ordinary