Live Report: Superorganism at The Academy

Comprised of eight people from Australia, England, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, & USA, Superorganism are the indie pop equivalent to Netflix series Sense8. Given their diverse backgrounds, one expected an eclectic show which they delivered.

The evening began with support act Chai, a Japanese all-female band. Sounding like Girls Aloud sung by Yolandi Visser from Die Antwoord with heavy guitars, the result was unlike anything this reviewer has heard. Meanwhile, the foursome's synchronised dance moves, matching outfits and off-beat covers of Abba's 'Dancing Queen; and The Ting Ting's 'Great DJ' just added to the enjoyable, strange experience.

Proceedings got weirder as Superorganism donned the stage in glitter strewn capes holding golden orbs. Behind them, the screen revealed a man found footage style stating: "If you are watching this, you're too late. I merged with the superorganism."

However, soon it becomes clear this emphasis on the theatrics is down to a lack of songs. After all, Superorganism's acclaimed debut album - released this year - clocked in at 33 minutes. While their accompanying old-school arcade inspired visuals are impressive, the band's banter with the crowd - pulling fans on stage and performing cartwheels - grows self-indulgent, feeling like an effort to bulk up a slight set-list.

It's disappointing because occasionally Superorganism blend artificial electronic music - made from synthesisers and samples - with real human energy, creating winning future pop. Frontwoman Orono Noguchi has a Joan Jett punk swagger delivering darker tracks like 'Nobody Cares'. Meanwhile, the band's solid backing vocals add bombast to the choruses of songs 'It's All Good' and 'Sprorgnsm'.

If Superorganism could focus more on songwriting than gimmicks, they could live up to their name.