CHECK OUT ALL THE PHOTOS FROM THE NIGHT HERE.

What is the one word that can bring a smile to the faces of those who missed out on tickets to Splendour In The Grass? SIDESHOWS! Last night’s offering was a sold-out gig at the Metro by Scottish lads, The Fratellis, who clearly have a strong and passionate fan-base.

First up was Yves Klein Blue who had the unenviable job of trying to win over a room full of Fratellis fans, but they certainly took the opportunity and ran with it. Although the guys are from Brisbane, I’m sure that many people have, or will be, fooled into thinking they are from the Brit Pop scene – especially due to the slight British tinge in frontman Michael Tomlinson’s vocals. In saying this, they have managed to take that influence and add their own unique spin on the genre. A perfect example of this was the standout track of the set, Polka, with its obvious rockabilly influence and feet-tapping rhythm. Using a generous helping of enthusiasm and their catchy indie-pop-rock tunes, they managed to get the crowd suitably revved up and scored themselves a few new fans in the process.

With the Metro packed to the rafters, the crowd gave The Fratellis an extremely warm welcome as they opened their set with the single Mistress Mabel from the new album Here We Stand. From the get-go, there was plenty of fervent patriotism from the crowd, with several Scottish flags and a tartan scarf being waved around.

Although they had a wide choice of new material the guys played quite a few tracks from their debut album Costello Music. Henrietta and Whistle For The Choir both got an understandably energised reception but, unsurprisingly, it was the hit single Chelsea Dagger that caused the crowd to erupt into a full blown frenzy. The whole venue shook with bodies jumping and punters shouting the familiar lyrics.

Hearing The Fratellis play live gave the crowd an idea of just how deceptive recordings can be. The band’s real-life sound is quite a bit heavier than their albums would lead you to believe, especially with such fierce drumming from Mince, which was beautifully showcased during an outstanding, heart-pumping solo. Even with their catchy hooks and an infectiously fun vibe the band is definitely more rock than pop.

After plenty of not so subtly persuasive cheering from the crowd, the guys returned to finish the night with an encore, which included the infectious single Flathead and apparent crowd favourite Baby Fratelli. As they said their thank yous and exited stage right, it was clear that the performance left the audience wanting more. In the best possible way of course.