The last time I saw Jimmy Barnes he was stripping things back with an acoustic show at the most intimate of venues, Lizotte’s on the Central Coast. Just a few short months later I witnessed a show that couldn’t have been more different. He was back with his Cold Chisel band mates and playing it loud in Newcastle great big shed, the Entertainment Center. While I appreciated the quietness of the first gig, there’s something about seeing a Chisel show that can’t be beat.
Before the rock veterans graced the stage we were treated by a set by The Break. Psychedelic surf music is an unusual entrée for some pub rock, but the skill of these musicians made it a tasty treat. The Break features members of Midnight Oil who spoke fondly of their love of our city. That sort of flattery helped win over the crowd, who listened attentively to the drum-heavy instrumental tracks.
While the crowd appreciated The Break, the excitement went up a notch when Cold Chisel took to the stage. It was sad at first to look out and see someone else sitting in Steve Prestwich’s chair, but new drummer Charley Drayton settled into his very big shoes. He slotted in seamlessly, helping original members Jimmy Barnes, Ian Moss, Phil Small, and Don Walker belt out hit after hit. We knew the lyrics to all the songs and sang along enthusiastically.
While I appreciated the loud rock numbers, the moments when the band stripped things back were real highlights. A pared back version of “When the War Is Over” was a fitting tribute to the late Steve Prestwich. I also appreciated the reggae-tinged take on “Breakfast at Sweethearts,” one of my personal favourites that wasn’t played the last time I saw them live. I’m also not sure anything can beat singing along to numbers like “Khe Sahn” and “Flame Trees.”
It wasn’t a perfect show. Jimmy’s voice seemed to be showing the strain from all that touring, especially during the ballads. The mix also wasn’t quite right, with Don Walker’s keys dominating at times they should have been more subtle, particularly in the stripped back moments.
But even these minor niggles couldn’t detract from seeing the band that I believe are the greatest Australia’s ever produced. It’s amazing to have them back in business.
Image source: own photos