music

Karnivool's 'in verses' fuels record-breaking australian tour

Published on 14/04/2026 02:46 in music • Jessie Sale

After a staggering thirteen-year hiatus, Perth’s Karnivool has not only returned with a critically acclaimed album, In Verses, but is now poised to deliver their largest Australian headline tour to date, a testament to the enduring power of progressive rock and a fiercely loyal fanbase.

A #1 album against the odds

The band’s recent release, In Verses, unexpectedly topped the ARIA Albums Chart, a remarkable feat considering Karnivool's conscious rejection of mainstream promotional tactics. “We can’t believe it,” guitarist Ian Kenny admitted, “After 13 years of waiting, it’s bloody lovely not to be forgotten, and at such a wild time for music to get a #1 record is pretty amazing.” Their decision to remain conspicuously absent from platforms like TikTok, coupled with releasing the album on their own label (through partners at Sony), highlights a deliberate defiance of conventional industry norms. It's a victory for artistry over algorithms.

International heavyweights join the bill

International heavyweights join the bill

The July tour, encompassing dates in Perth, Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, will not only showcase In Verses in its full, live glory, but will also feature two formidable international acts. TesseracT, the UK-based progressive metal pioneers known for their innovative sonic landscapes and technical virtuosity, will open the shows, alongside New York’s Car Bomb, making their debut appearance in australia. Expect a night of intense, layered soundscapes.

Delivering the complex live

Having spent years meticulously crafting In Verses, Karnivool now faces the challenge of translating its intricate compositions to the live stage. The album's density and complexity are undeniable, but the band's reputation for delivering compelling performances suggests they are more than capable of rising to the occasion. The tour represents more than just a series of concerts; it's a celebration of perseverance, artistic integrity, and the unwavering support of a dedicated community.

Tickets go on sale at 9am (local time) on April 16th. See below for dates:

  • Sat 18 Jul – Ice Cream Factory (Perth)
  • Tue 21 Jul – AEC Theatre (Adelaide)
  • Thu 23 Jul – Hordern Pavilion (Sydney)
  • Fri 24 Jul – Margaret Court Arena (Melbourne)
  • Sat 25 Jul – The Riverstage (Brisbane)