Reviews · 12 October 2026

Live Review: The Cat Empire @ Thebarton Theatre 09/10/26

We said hello again to our favourite jazz-funk ensemble, The Cat Empire, who played to a packed house at Thebby Theatre.

By Brad Pine

The Cat Empire - Brad Pine

The Cat Empire has been a fundamental force in the world music scene within Australia for the better part of the 21st century. Crossing genres including Latin, jazz, funk, reggae and ska, the ever-evolving band have always brought an amazing live show to captivated audiences. For the Orchestra Encore Tour, The Cat Empire are joined by the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra for the South Australian leg of the tour. This collaboration adds another sonic arrow to their quiver.

As the gloomy weather of the day broke, we entered the foyer of Thebarton Theatre, filling steadily until the doors officially opened. Seated up in the dress circle, we could see the flood of people both in the stands and on the floor, right in front of the stage. The members of the ASO found their positions and tuned their instruments as the public muttered amongst themselves, waiting for the main act.

Conductor Paolo Bortolameolli made his way to the stage, warming up his orchestra as The Cat Empire arrived to tremendous applause. The opening song (and first song on their debut album) 'How To Explain' was the perfect showcase of why the symphonic element worked perfectly in tandem with The Cat Empire's discography.

The music became a whole-body experience; a depth unique to the band but still with familiar orchestral soundscapes. Bandleader Felix Riebl switched between vocals and percussion with unparalleled energy. The Empire Dancers, Chantelle Cano and Johnny Tedesco, joined the band to demonstrate expert flamenco tap (also known as zapateo), which was not the only time in the night.

'Blood On The Stage' continued the passionate drive of the set – "it's the code we live by," Riebl stated, leaving nothing left when performing. "But when you walk into the sound of that sweet, sweet rage / You better play like Cuban fire and leave your blood on the stage." This was followed by 'Bird In Paradise', which beautifully interwove the Spanish influence with the cinematic symphony. For 'Lost Song', vocalist and bassist Grace Barbé took centre stage in a tender interlude. Each moment in these songs had its own place whilst working beautifully as a collective.

The first moment of audience participation came with Empire Horns trumpeter Lazaro Ernesto Numa Pompa introducing the Buena Vista Social Club cover 'Candela', giving us a sound of exultation to sing. Within the song, however, the highlight was pianist Ollie McGill, Riebl and guitarist Richard Tedesco trying to outplay each other in a spectacle of musicianship. 'Brighter Than Gold' was a personal highlight for me, as the crowd was awash in golden light during the vibrant and playful song. 'Rock & Roll' closed the set with the last moments spotlighted on the ASO – The Cat Empire standing to watch them in a moment of utter respect.

The second set continued the intensity and wall of sound from the first. 'Bulls' had Riebl centre stage, delivering the song with sincerity and power, which had us all within his gaze. Dancer Chantelle Cano returned to the stage, draped in stunning black for the song 'Devil' – Cano displayed an amazing routine that emboldened the symphonic undertones of the song.

'Two Shoes' and 'Owl' brought the party vibes, with Riebl reflecting on his history with Adelaide. "The first Fringe festival was very pivotal…I pay my respects to the support for all those who have followed us…It’s multigenerational now!"

'Owl' also allowed for the Empire Dancers to share and outdo each other’s rapid zapateo, bringing the rapturous applause of the crowd.

Riebl paid tribute to his late brother Max Riebl with the duo of songs 'Be With You Again' and 'Miserere'. The latter was once again the perfect example of how the orchestra beautifully fit with the music of The Cat Empire. A brilliant arrangement from Roscoe James Irwin, who has been a pivotal part of the band as a member of the Empire Horns and in its musical direction.

'Steal The Light' ended the second set on an absolute high, leaving the crowd stomping and cheering for the inevitable encore. The band returned armed with a medley of their early hits, including 'Fishies', 'Days Like These' and an intense instrumental version of 'The Wine Song'. People made their way from the stands to the floor, ready for the final song of the night, 'Still Young'. All members of the band were having an absolute blast on stage, adding a little moment of 'The Chariot' at the end to close out the spectacular night.

From the early days of 'Hello' being a staple on Australian radio, who would have envisioned the legacy of The Cat Empire we witnessed tonight? The musicianship and skill on display showed why they have the permanence in creating incredible live performances. The addition of the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra to their music created a cinematic and all-encompassing experience that pleased every audience member tonight.