Category: Concert Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Thirsty Merc @ Lizotte’s, Newcastle – 16 November 2018

I first saw Thirsty Merc way back in 2004, when they supported Maroon 5 at the Gaelic Club. Incidentally Maroon 5 were bland, failing to excite me the way their debut album Songs About Jane did. I became an instant Thirsty Merc fan though. I’ve seen them countless times over the last 14 years, but I think last Friday’s show at Lizotte’s might just be the best.

Owen Campbell warmed up the stage, delivering a stellar set of swampy blues. Brian Lizotte had given him a big wrap before he stepped out, and he certainly lived up to that hype. Originals made up the bulk of his set, but they were so good that it didn’t matter that we couldn’t sing along. While the originals slayed, a cover of Van Morrison’s “Crazy Love” was a real highlight for those of us in the know. As I listened to Owen play I noticed there was none of the murmur that normally hums in a room while support acts play. I think most of us were as transfixed as I was on his set. Either that or they were just too busy filling their face with some of Lizotte’s legendary food.

I might not have used my voice much during Owen Campbell’s set, but I made up for it during Thirsty Merc’s. What a treat it was for long-time fans like me. “Undivided Love,” a personal favourite my husband and I can’t remember hearing live, came out early. Another favourite we never expect to hear, “Build A Bridge” was delivered with such passion. A crowd request for “Tommy and Krista” was another highlight. A slowed-down version of “My Completeness” revealed the tenderness of the lyrics. Not that there wasn’t anything for casual radio fans though. Thirsty Merc delivered hits like “In the Summertime” and “20 Good Reasons” with just as much gusto as the more obscure numbers.

I joked to my husband as we left that it’s almost as if the band had intel on exactly what he’d want to hear. A killer set takes you a long way towards a great show. But there was something more at play. Rai told us how much he loves Lizotte’s, so maybe the joy that comes from playing a favourite venue played a part. Perhaps the lads are simply enjoying playing a bit more now they’re not touring as relentlessly as they used to. Whatever the case, I’m so glad I caught the show. If you haven’t seen Thirsty Merc before or it’s been a while between shows, check them out on their Summer 2018 tour. Right now it seems they’re better than ever.

23 November 2018 – SS&A Club, Albury
24 November 2018 – Mulwala Ski Club, Mulwala
25 November 2018 – One Electric Day Festival, Werribee
30 November 2018 – O’Donoghues, Emu Plains
1 December 2018 – Bathurst RSL, Bathurst
7 December 2018 – Moruya Waterfront Hotel Motel, Moruya
14 December 2018 – Days of Summer, Chelsea Heights (with Daryl Braithwaite)
15 December 2018 – The Palms @ Crown Melbourne
Southbank (with Daryl Braithwaite)
28 December 2018 – Laurieton United Services Club, Laurieton
29 December 2018 – Moonee Beach Tavern, Moonee Beach
30 December 2018 – Coolangatta Hotel, Coolangatta
31 December 2018 – The Ville Resort-Casino, Townsville

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Nathan Cavaleri @ The Rhythm Hut, Gosford – 4 November 2018

When Lizotte’s closed the doors of the “cubbyhouse” in Kincumber around three and a half years ago, I worried the Central Coast might start missing out on shows. I don’t mind driving up and down the Pacific Highway if I need to, but there’s something so lovely about seeing gigs close to home. Rather than missing out though, other venues have stepped up to fill the void. Laycock Street Theatre is securing more musicians, and Wyong’s built The Art House. These venues are wonderful, but they don’t quite have that welcoming, comforting quality a night out at Lizotte’s had. So last night I was thrilled to discover a venue that does: The Rhythm Hut.

I’ve been intending to visit this Gosford arts space for some time, but the stars never quite aligned. When I was offered a pair of tickets for the Nathan Cavaleri show last night, I couldn’t refuse. The Rhythm Hut isn’t like most music venues. You feel like you’re heading towards someone’s house for a backyard barbeque rather than performance space as you walk down the steps to its outdoor patio area bordered by succulents. Inside there are mismatched couches at the back and along the sides and pillows and beanbags around the front near the stage. One half of the bar is for drinks, like the local Six Strings beers and decent wine served in real glasses, while the other serves hearty dishes and desserts. Last night it was vegetarian or chicken paella and brownies, but I hear the menu changes depending on what the volunteers make.

That’s right: volunteers. The Rhythm Hut is a non-profit performance space. When it’s not hosting local and international musicians, there are open mic nights and drumming workshops. Everyone seems to know everyone, and even if you’re a newcomer you’ll feel you’re going home part of the community. The hosts encourage the audience to make new friends between acts. So it seemed totally natural that I got chatting to the gentleman next to me and his adorable long-haired chihuahua. He wasn’t even the only dog enjoying the music.

This unique space really was the perfect venue for this show. Support act Dylan Wright might have gotten swallowed up in a larger venue, but here you could have heard a pin drop as he delivered his spine-tingling folky tunes. His original songs were outstanding, but I couldn’t help smiling at his slowed-down take on Rick James’ “Super Freak.” I was excited to see Nathan, but I must admit I was a little disappointed when his set ended. I snapped up his EP so I can listen more. I’m an instant fan.

Nathan Cavaleri has been out of the spotlight in recent years, but when I was growing up he was a household name, the cute kid who had leukemia and a natural gift for the guitar. It’s a gift that has taken him all over the world and seen him share bills with BB King, Elton John, Robert Plant, and Jimmy Page, to name but a few. As you can imagine, now all grown-up Nathan has some stories to tell. While there were the superstar anecdotes, he wasn’t afraid to reveal more personal tales of his battles with anxiety, depression, and self-doubt.

The stories helped punctuate a set that was truly something special. With good mate Kenny by his side, Nathan left no doubt that the guitar skills he showcased as a kid on numerous TV shows haven’t gone anywhere. In fact, he might play even better now, combining his natural flair with a dirtier blues sensibility. Originals sat comfortable among tributes to his influences, including Ben Harper, Fleetwood Mac, and of course, the great BB King. They were played with such joy and the whole crowd responded, whether they were nodding their heads from their seats or dancing with wild abandon around the sides of the venue.

Last night Nathan Cavaleri put on one of those performances that just feels good for the soul. I can’t imagine a better venue for this show or to wrap up his “Demons” tour. It felt like a house party, one of those nights where someone has a guitar and starts to jam spontaneously. Except as we all know, Nathan is much handier with an axe than your average party guest.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Kav Temperley @ Lizotte’s, Newcastle – 20 October 2018

A night at Lizotte’s always feels like coming home. I don’t get to visit as often as I’d liked, since the Central Coast arm folded, but it’s a venue worth making the trip up the Pacific Highway for. The musicians are always first-class, but many venues can claim that. Add in delicious food, friendly and attentive waitstaff, and quality beverages though, and you’ll start understanding why Lizotte’s has a special atmosphere that’s all its own. Music fans love being here, and musicians love playing here. If you’ve ever caught one of the live streaming videos the venue posts on Facebook, you’d understand that all those good vibes help magic happen at Lizotte’s. So not even the thunderstorms could dampen my enthusiasm for a road trip to Newie for Kav Temperley’s Lizotte’s show on Saturday night.

Kruger James played violin on Kav’s new solo record, All Your Devotion, but he got the chance to step into the spotlight in his support slot. I’m sure his blend of rapping and electric violin wasn’t to everyone’s tastes, but I was transfixed. His tracks were soulful, with clever rhymes and positive vibes. I would have loved to hear him with a band rather than a backing track, but I understand support acts have budget constraints. His own electric violin really elevated his work. A freestyle rap referencing the desserts people were enjoying near the stage, the fantastic venue, and his music got everyone on side. Even if rap isn’t your genre of choice, it’s impossible to be unimpressed by such clever spontaneous rhymes.

Kav was the man we all came to see, and he appeared every bit the star as he stepped on stage in his leather jacket, with an acoustic guitar strapped on. He might have been on tour to promote his new album All Your Devotion, but he wasn’t going to ignore the fans who’d been with him throughout his musical journey. Opening tracks “From the Sea” and “Older Than You” made me wonder why I’d left it so long to catch him live. The stripped-back performances helped me appreciate these radio-friendly hits just a little more.

After a little trip down memory lane, it was time to celebrate Kav’s new solo record. I absolutely love this album. While I always enjoyed Eskimo Joe music, this album has converted me from casual listener to real fan. So I was thrilled to hear those songs and the stories behind them. Since he played on the record, it was only fitting that Kruger joined Kav for a few numbers, including one of the night’s standouts, “Queen of My Heart.” I’d questioned the inclusion of “Christmas Lights,” feeling a festive song was a little out of place on this album of songs about love lost and found. However, being involved in the call-and-response chorus of this modern Christmas song, it made total sense. Even in October. What great fun.

Stepping out solo when you’re part of such a well-loved Australian band must be daunting. There’s no one else to hide behind, and since you’re the only one making the music, it often comes from a more intimate, personal place. But if there were any nerves, Kav Temperley didn’t show them. His set at Lizotte’s was wonderful, a celebration of this fantastic new collection of songs he’s created which didn’t forget the music that thrust him into the spotlight. There are just a few dates left on the All Your Devotion tour. If you’re near one of these Western Australian venues, trust me: get yourself a ticket. Just like the album they’re promoting, these shows are sure to be something special.

27 October 2018 – Mojos, Fremantle
2 November 2018 – River Hotel, Margaret River
3 November 2018 – Prince of Wales, Bunbury

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Rick Price @ Laycock Street Theatre, Gosford – 12 October 2018

Rick Price’s Heaven Knows album is one of the first I remember buying with my own money. I was only getting a few dollars a week for chores around the house, so it took months for 12-year-old me to get my hands on it. When I did, I made it count, blasting those radio-friendly pop-rock tunes until my parents were tired of them. So when I heard Rick Price was revisiting that beloved album, in an intimate venue on the Central Coast no less, I snapped up tickets.

Laycock Street Theatre in Gosford is a small venue at the best of times, but its Don Craig room takes intimate to a new level. It holds no more than 100 seats, and its stage is tiny. They don’t allow photos during the performance, but it’s nice to just be in the moment and drink it all in. Give me this over a big arena any day.

Rick promised to play Heaven Knows cover-to-cover, but he made us wait for it. The first half was a kind of musical catch-up session, celebrating highlights of his career after that breakthrough records. Songs like “River of Love” from Tamborine Mountain were charting singles while others, like gospel tracks from his 2015 album Tennessee Sky were less familiar to most people I imagine. But there’s something about seeing an artist in a setting like this, with just an acoustic guitar and an incredible voice, that engages you regardless of whether they’re playing the hits of lesser-known numbers.

After a brief intermission we were back for the major drawcard, the Heaven Knows album cover to cover. I’ve seen Rick play countless times over the years, but what a treat it was to hear many of the songs from that album that don’t make his usual sets, especially in this stripped acoustic mode. They sounded so good on the album, but hearing them without all the studio production was a revelation. Rick peppered the songs with stories about that exciting time in his career, the experiences he had, the inspiration for the music that meant so much not just to him but so many Australians.

It was a special night for Rick, and not just because he was sharing special songs in a venue he clearly loves. His son and granddaughter were there, so it was only fitting that he left us with a song from Tamborine Mountain he wrote for his boy, now a man with a family of his own, “You’re Never Alone.” It’s such a beautiful song, and Rick always does a wonderful rendition, but there was extra emotion behind it, knowing who was in the room this time.

Rick Price is taking his Heaven Knows tour all around the country. If like me, you ever cranked up his songs on the radio, you won’t want to miss this.

20 October 2018 – The Cabaret Club, Ballarat
23 October 2018 – Beerwah Hotel, Sunshine Coast
24 October 2018 – Palmwoods Hotel, Sunshine Coast
25 October 2018 – Brisbane Jazz Club, Brisbane
26 October 2018 – Southport RSL Club, Gold Coast
27 October 2018 – The Exchange Hotel Kilcoy, Kilcoy
28 October 2018 – Westower Tavern, West Ballina
2 November 2018 – The Agrestic Grocer, Orange
3 November 2018 – Smith’s Alternative, Canberra
4 November 2018 – Cronulla Golf, Cronulla
9 November 2018 – Burnie Arts Centre, Burnie
10 November 2018 – Hotel Crown, Victor Harbor

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Cher @ Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Newcastle – 26 September 2018

This week has flown by in a whirlwind of deadlines and footy fun. I’ve scarcely had a moment to stop and absorb seeing Cher last week. I see a lot of concerts, so I don’t often have those shows where I’m bouncing around in anticipation. This one though, this was a bucket list event. The chance to see a true icon, at my old stomping ground of the Newcastle Entertainment Centre no less!

I must admit, I was surprised to hear there was a support act. How on earth do you support Cher? Andrew McClelland pulled it off in his own sensational style. He was billed as a DJ, but really he was so much more than that. Watching him dance with such joy and abandon to hits from Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston, and other retro-fabulous acts was everything. I wish I had a photo that properly showed you what he was all about, but he was moving so fast his performance was impossible to capture.

I was having so much fun I almost forgot what I was there for, until one name was beamed up on the back of the stage and the screens. Cher. When you’re an icon, you only need one name to identify you. Watching a montage of footage and photos from her history, my excitement was fever pitch. And there she was, suspended above the stage on some regal kind of platform, with a flaming red wig and disco ball sparkly outfit. I wish I could have shown you, but all those sparkles were dazzling my camera. You’ll just have to believe me: she looked fierce. Feminist anthems “Woman’s World” and “Strong Enough” were the perfect openers.

I must admit, my enthusiasm waned a little as Cher launched into a rambling anecdote about aging, David Letterman, and her enthusiasm for acting. I love moments when artists share part of themselves with us, but her story went on so long and doubled back on itself so many times she started to lose us. No mean feat for such a commanding presence. It was the only real misstep though, and soon enough she was perched on an elephant wearing robes and delivering “Gayatri Mantra” like some kind of Indian queen. Because of course she was.

It might have taken a little while to settle in, but once she did Cher was everything I hoped she’d be. The anecdotes were tight and impactful. Her vocals were note perfect. Her costumes were breathtaking, and with dancers, aerialists, and acrobats keeping us entertained we barely noticed her slip away, only to return in something more fabulous.

These shows were billed as Cher’s farewell to Australia. If this is the last time we see her on our shores, I can’t imagine too many people will be disappointed. She played for us all, from the baby boomers who watched Sonny and Cher to the young things who hadn’t heard of her before recent starring turns in Burlesque and Mamma Mia 2. I was especially moved to hear she hasn’t performed “I Got You Babe” in many years. Seeing her sing it “with” Sonny again, thanks to the magic of technology, was so special. I shared my mum’s excitement when Cher played her favourite song, “Half Breed,” and had my own moments of bliss when she sang “After All,” from the movie Chances Are. I’ve never really been an ABBA fan, but I couldn’t help but be swept up in the fun of her covers of “Waterloo,” “SOS,” and “Fernando.” By the time she launched into “If I Could Turn Back Time” and the closer “Believe,” we were all on our feet, singing and dancing our hearts out.

The words icon and legend get bandied around a little too freely for my liking. They should be reserved for the true creative forces of this world, people like Cher. I had such high expectations of this show, but she exceeded them. At 72, no less. What a privilege to bask in her aura for just a little while.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Anthony Callea @ State Theatre, Sydney – 11 August 2018

In 2004, I voted for Casey Donovan. If you’d have told me then that I’d be making a trip into the city to see her Australian Idol competition Anthony Callea live, I would have laughed. It’s not that I didn’t think he was talented. His voice was always undeniable. But I didn’t quite connect to him as a performer.

I didn’t become an Anthony Callea fan until he released his album of George Michael covers in 2014. With every subsequent album release I became a little more of a fan. After arriving late to the party, it was a real thrill to see Anthony perform his ARIA Number 1 Hits in Concert show at the State Theatre in Sydney on the weekend.

While the concert celebrated Anthony’s last number one album, ARIA Number 1 Hits in Symphony, with the bulk of the show made up of those beloved covers, it was really a retrospective of his career. Original songs from recordings as early as his first EP were no doubt a real treat to the diehard fans who were there when it all began. For me, it gave me an opportunity to catch up on the music I missed.

While I appreciated the originals, Anthony’s excellent cover versions provided some of the show’s highlights. A stripped back mash-up of Whitney Houston hits “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” and “How Will I Know” performed with his childhood friends was really special. An unexpected take on Keith Urban’s “Tonight I Want to Cry,” a song that didn’t appear on any of the recent cover albums, brought tears to my eyes. And if you don’t get goosebumps when Anthony performs “The Prayer” I’d check for a pulse. I was also thrilled to hear a couple of those George Michael classics that converted me into a true fan. By the time “Freedom ‘90” came around, I was regretting my decision to buy seats in the circle. Bouncing around in my chair, near the sign that reminded us all standing up and dancing was strictly prohibited, I wished I was down the front in the thick of the action.

While the songs and Anthony’s incomparable voice took centre stage, his ease as an entertainer was what really struck me. He chatted easily with the crowd, regaling us with tales of his time in the music business. That included his time on Idol. When so many people shy away from acknowledging reality TV stints, his candour and appreciation for that experience was refreshing. Anthony apologised countless times for going off on tangents, but I don’t think any of us minded his rambling. If I want to hear someone simply sing, I’ll stay home and listen to the CD. I come to concerts for a real show, and those stories are such a key part of that.

As I sat on the train heading back to the Central Coast, I spotted several people wearing Pink! T-shirts, all smiles after seeing her perform at Qudos Arena. Her show was at the other end of the spectrum, a sell-out spectacular in a large arena. There were no such theatrics about Anthony’s show, unless you count his blingy clothes. But he didn’t need them. Some might say Pink! doesn’t either, that her voice and songs could stand up if all the fanfare was stripped away and that she simply puts on the kind of big show she does because she can. But I was reminded of something that Anthony said during the night, about how he loved Australian Idol for its simplicity. Our first TV singing show didn’t need use backing dancers or elaborate staging. What Anthony does now continues that tradition. In a world that constantly tries to up the entertainment factor, bringing a show back to an incredible voice, great songs, and a winning personality is so refreshing.

Anthony Callea wraps up his ARIA Number 1 Hits in Concert tour at the Palms at Crown in Melbourne on August 24.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Book of Mormon @ Lyric Theatre, Sydney

Ordinarily when I see a musical theatre production I can’t wait to tell you all about it. But more than a week has passed since I saw The Book of Mormon and I still haven’t put fingers to keyboard.

It’s certainly not because the production was disappointing. It’s up there with the best things I’ve seen on a stage.

It’s not that I was reluctant to recommend it, although it’s not a musical I’d suggest everyone see. Chatting to a saleswoman at one of the fashion boutiques, I learned there have been many walkouts. During one of the earliest numbers, when F-bombs and C-bombs starting flying, I wondered about my own decision to take my parents for their birthdays. However, when they raved about how much fun they were having at intermission, I realised my parents are made of tougher stuff than I imagined. It’s certainly not for the easily offended or sensitive ears, but if you buy tickets for a musical by the creators of South Park you probably have some idea whether you can handle it.

Perhaps I’ve hesitated because I’m not quite sure what to say beyond what you probably already know. Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you know The Book of Mormon follows the journey of some American Mormon missionaries keen to save the people of Uganda through the power of the Good Book. The thing is, I think that’s all you really need to know. The less you learn about the intricacies of the musical beyond that, the better. I found it so rewarding to see a production that surprised me. In the recent past the musical theatre scene has been dominated by retellings of popular stories like Aladdin and Mary Poppins and biopics charting the rise of legendary musicians like Carole King and Bobby Darin. I’ve enjoyed those musicals, but I also knew where they were going. Even something original like Kinky Boots had an air of predictability about it. True love and our hero’s dreams would always win in the end. But you’re never quite sure where The Book of Mormon will take you, and that’s exciting.

I do want to tell you The Book of Mormon is exceptionally funny. I mean proper laugh out loud from your belly kind of funny. It’s also a very good musical. Don’t underestimate it on that front because Trey Parker and Matt Stone are behind it. The songs are as well-crafted as any you’d find in a Broadway hit. The cast is exceptional, singing and dancing with the best of them. It was no fluke that this show won the Helpmann award for best musical last year, and that goes beyond the edgy comedy. Perhaps one of the key reasons is that this is a show with real heart. I cared about the characters. I was invested in the storyline.

The Book of Mormon is certainly a musical with the power to offend. The walkouts are proof positive of that. But true art plays on the edges. If you appreciate that, make sure you don’t miss The Book of Mormon.

The Book of Mormon is currently playing at the Lyric Theatre, in Sydney’s Star Casino. It will then travel to Brisbane and Adelaide.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Mr. Big & Extreme @ Enmore Theatre, Newtown – 3 June 2018

It might be 2018, but you wouldn’t know it looking at the gig guides. They’re filled with musical throwbacks keen to reunite with fans and give them a blast from the past with all the hits they know and love. The latest to hit our shores is the early 90s double-shot of Mr. Big and Extreme.

Mr. Big were the band I was really there to see. I have such fond memories of busting out “To Be With You” and “Just Take My Heart” as a kid and I was sure the band’s harmonies and big chords would be just as impressive in the live arena. Yet before too long I was feeling restless. I didn’t know any songs beyond those two hits (although that’s probably one more track than the average person), and it felt like this band was performing just to those people who did. While those folks down the front were having a grand old time singing along, I was fast becoming bored. I started to wonder whether perhaps I just wasn’t a real rock music fan as the guitarist launched into another shredding solo. The musicians were first-rate by the way, but frontman Eric Martin seemed a little by the numbers.

I must admit, after Mr. Big failed to fire for me I was prepared for this to be a long night. After all, I wasn’t much more familiar with Extreme’s back catalogue and they weren’t the act that got me through the door. They were the act that kept my butt on the seat though, except for the part near the end where I couldn’t resist giving them the standing ovation they deserved.

It turns out, I love a good rock show when it’s done well. Extreme gave us a masterclass. Gary Cherone is more energetic than most singers have his age. I was transfixed watching him bounce around the stage with all the swagger and sex appeal of a real rock star. His chemistry with lead guitarist Nuno Bettencourt is palpable. It’s a joy watching them play off one another. Speaking of playing, I’m not sure I’ll see many guitarists in my lifetime better than Nuno. His hand speed is incredible. My husband swears that at one point he was playing 300 beats a minute.

Singing along to the hits like “Hole Hearted” and “More Than Words” was great fun, but I didn’t find myself waiting for them as did during Mr. Big’s set. Everything was so entertaining that Extreme didn’t need to play on my taste for nostalgia.

While I loved those songs, they didn’t bring me my favourite moment of the night. That came when Extreme busted out “Play With Me” from Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. It’s one of my husband’s favourite songs of all time. I’d suggested to him that they might not play it, not wanting him to be potentially disappointed, but he assured me it was coming. Watching the joy spread across his face as he punched his fist in the air and screamed out the lyrics is one of the greatest things I’ve ever experienced at a show.

It’s a bit of an effort for me to see a show in Sydney. There’s transport and often hotels to coordinate, time off to organise, so I want it to be worthwhile. Mr. Big might have been lacklustre, but Extreme made my night. I’m not overstating the point when I tell you that they put on one of the best concerts I’ve ever seen. I had a healthy level of appreciation of their music before, but now I’m a fan for life.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Joshua Radin @ Factory Theatre, Marrickville – 24 May 2018

You know you’ve been working too hard when you end up another gig before you’ve had time to write about another gone past. I’ve been slammed with work lately, which meant that a tour from one of my favourite performers, Joshua Radin, came at exactly the right time. Joshua’s brand of music, what he calls “whisper rock,” has always has a way of calming me down, so it really hit the spot near the end of last month.

I must admit, when I heard Joshua’s close friend Cary Brothers was on supporting duty I fired up his back catalogue on Spotify, determined to get to know his music. After a couple of tracks I gave up. While Joshua’s gentle music soothes me, I found Cary’s similar folky sounds a little boring. So I really wasn’t looking forward to his set. It’s funny how different a live experience can be though. I was mesmerised by his beautiful folk music, hanging on to every single word the charming Cary sang. There were no frills here; just a man with an acoustic guitar and some incredible songs I’d underestimated on the first listen. Despite knowing one of my favourite singers was coming, I felt a little disappointed when Cary announced his final song.

My disappointment didn’t last too long though. My heart soared as Joshua Radin took to the stage and treated us to the first strums of his acoustic guitar. “No Envy, No Fear” has become an almost predictable opener, but it’s still so powerful. Joshua brought down the traditional barriers that usually exist between audience and performer early, stepping away from the microphone during the song to sing unaided. It’s a testament to the attentive crowd and the intimacy of the wonderful Factory Theatre that we could still hear him perfectly.

Joshua isn’t the kind of artist who tops the charts, so he doesn’t really have singles the crowd waits for. We’re also never sure quite where the set will go, but because most of us are so familiar with his albums we’re excited to find out. We want to hear the album tracks that speak to us, although Joshua writes such important music that most songs do. I lost count of the number of times I leaned over to my husband to squeeze his hand in excitement or whisper “I love this song!” We had a moment together huddled close, singing along with “My My Love” from Wax Wings. I found myself wiping away tears as Joshua played us “Winter,” one of the first of his songs I fell for.

Joshua Radin is such a special performer. A little like Cary Brothers, he performs without bells and whistles. His gentle songs and sweet demeanour draw you in and cast a spell over the entire room. When so many musicians worry about stage spectaculars, it’s refreshing to see artists like him who simply celebrate the song.

I felt so tightly wound before seeing Joshua play at the Factory Theatre. I was stressed about my work deadlines, getting to Marrickville, and what time I’d need to arrive to score a decent spot in this venue I’d never visited (I’m not a fan of general admission shows for that very reason). Yet by the time Cary returned to join Joshua for the encore, a cover of “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright,” I realised this wonderful music had well and truly calmed me down. Sometimes you see a show just when you need to see it. Joshua might have left us waiting so long that he worried we might have forgotten about him, but he was well and truly worth the wait.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Nothing Compares 2 Prince @ Sydney Opera House, Sydney – 27 April 2018

We’ve just passed the two-year anniversary of Prince’s passing. It doesn’t quite feel like that long, perhaps because his music hasn’t left me. While the CDs keep me company, it’s concerts like last week’s Nothing Compares 2 Prince show that really sustain me. Nights where I can spend time with the talented artists who loved Prince, who miss him as the fans I’m dancing with do.

After seeing New Power Generation last month, I was primed for this gig. Those guys were so good, surely adding members of The Time and The Family to the mix and staging it at the beautiful Sydney Opera House would only enhance the experience. I may also have benefitted from having tickets a bit closer to the stage. While we were dancing at the back of the Enmore Theatre last month, there’s nothing like being just a few rows back from the musicians, basking in their aura. And what musicians they were.

St Paul Peterson, who met Prince at 17 and fronted The Family, served as musical director and an anchor for the show. He was complemented so beautifully by Shelby J, a member of New Power Generation whose stunning voice and stage presence had us all in the palm of her hand. Andy Allo, who also spent time with NPG, was a revelation. I’d assumed we’d see the same NPG members as we did last month, but watching other members of this supergroup, being exposed to their talents, made this show special. And I must take a moment to mention those horns. While I enjoyed last month’s NPG show, having brass piped through the speakers was a letdown. With a three-piece brass section delivering that rich sound live, this show truly had the Minneapolis sound I craved.

I didn’t take a lot of photos because I spent the bulk of the show on my feet. There was no holding back, with big guns like “1999” and “I Want to Be Your Lover” coming out early. The set was full of so many hits, and those lesser known tracks that the true fans love. I was thrilled to hear many of the songs Prince penned for other artists too. Covers of “Manic Monday” and “Stand Back” reminded us of his immense body of work.

While most of the numbers had us dancing, there were also sombre moments for us to reflect on the impact Prince had made on all our lives. Fittingly many came from Tyka Nelson, Prince’s sister. She was visibly choked up as she told us how much our love meant to Prince and as she sang his words. Her version of “The Ladder” took me to church and it was only right that she came back for the closer, “Purple Rain.” Shelby J’s performance of “Nothing Compares 2 U” with St Paul Peterson, who sang lead on The Family’s original, was spine-tingling. The song that took me down was “Sometimes It Snows in April” though, performed so beautifully by NPG’s Cassandra O’Neal. I had only been talking in the intermission about how that song is the one that still makes me cry, and again I found myself wiping tears away as she delivered this beautiful ballad. The wonderful thing about Prince’s back catalogue though is that you’re never left crying for too long. He might be gone, but he’s left us with so many reasons to dance.

Nothing Compares 2 Prince was a fantastic tribute to one of the music world’s brightest stars. The advertisements told us the event wasn’t affiliated with or endorsed by Prince’s estate, but if he could communicate with us I have a feeling he’d give this show his tick of approval.

Image source: Stephen Katulka