Live Report: Bambie Thug bewitches The Academy

Pop artist Bambie Thug's performance at the Academy highlighted their commanding presence – and was well received by their adoring Irish fans.

Before the performance began, an eerie tune began to play, and Bambie's voice was heard throughout the venue: "Only joy and music matter, leave your name, your gender, your sex at the door, none of that matters here, all that matters is that you are present in this moment."

Bambie Thug crept onstage with a tangible energy, as soft red lights coloured the stage, and inflatable bright green eyeballs peered out at the audience.

The self-described 'ouija pop' star popped onstage wearing a familiar feathered outfit – remarking: "Haven't worn this since Eurovision."

Their hair was similarly done up in two jet black swoops above their head, with perfect gothic makeup to match the look.

Flanked by two back-up dancers in ski masks and crop tops, Bambie dived into 'Hex So Heavy', a powerful revenge rap, with sassy, angular choreography that highlighted the edgy tone of the song. The beat felt like a drill rap séance, and annihilated whoever the diss was about. I especially enjoyed the line: "I know I'm on your mind with all the shit that you stole from me..."

During the performance Bambie took a moment to acknowledge the ongoing conflict in Gaza, draping themself in a Palestinian flag, and singing an ode to the children impacted by the devastation. This moment was particularly poignant, and members of the audience (including myself) teared up. Bambie remarked on the privileges we all have living in Ireland, and how they are proud to be Irish because of Ireland's support of Palestine. They encouraged the audience to attend protests in support of Palestine.

It was obvious that Bambie has a special connection to their fans, who continued to bestow gifts upon them throughout the performance. They accepted everything from a gift bag to bracelets, handed to them by delighted fans, who screamed as Bambie interacted with their fans.

'Tsunami' was another upbeat tune, featuring a propulsive pop-punk-influenced rap beat. The final part of the song features a highly danceable hardstyle portion, that saw Bambie and their dancers spraying the delighted audience with waterguns on-beat in the midst of bright blue lights.

Bambie Thug at Academy Dublin by Jason Doherty

The performance was full of audience engagement, particularly during Bambie's latest release 'Fangtasy'. They taught the audience the dance moves for the track, and practiced them a few times before performing the song. Everyone joined in to dance, and Bambie Thug posters were handed out to a couple of lucky participants who particularly impressed.

In an encore, Bambie played their Eurovision song 'Doomsday Blue', and fans avidly yelled the lyrics to the popular tune. Bambie then revealed their under-outfit to be a matching set with the trans-flag colours.

As an alternative person, Bambie Thug's performance was one of the most fun, entertaining performances I've seen this year in Dublin. Their performance is a must see for all the freakish creatures of Ireland.

Bambie Thug's upcoming tour dates include The Academy, Dublin (October 31); the Róisín Dubh, Galway (November 2); and Cork City Hall (November 7).