Category: Concert Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Simply Red @ Bimbadgen Estate, Hunter Valley – 21 February 2009

When I was a young teenager I saw Simply Red play at the Newcastle Entertainment Center. I admit that I wasn’t a big fan of the band, but I enjoyed “Fairground” which was all over radio at the time, and I didn’t want to be left at home while my parents saw the show. I may not have adored the band before the show, but when I left I was converted.

I admit it; as I looked back years later I wondered whether I was just excited by such a large-scale show. I had only seen one or two concerts before, so seeing any band was a big deal. Were they really as good as I remembered?

After catching Simply Red again at Bimbadgen Estate on Saturday, my answer is an unreserved yes. But of course any Day on the Green show is about more than the main act so allow me to backtrack a little.

It was a soggy day in the Hunter Valley on Saturday. We were all thankful when Dragon took to the stage, providing some respite from the relentless downpour. Mark Williams did his best to fill the very big shoes left by Marc Hunter, but he didn’t quite cut it. The vocals didn’t have quite enough punch, but the crowd helped to fill in the gaps. Hit after hit after hit came. “Rain” was a real highlight considering we were all soaked through to our underwear!

Kate Ceberano has always struck me with her warmth and sunny disposition, so it seemed fitting that the clouds parted for her performance. She treated us to a covers-heavy set, drawing from her recent albums Nine Lime Avenue and So Much Beauty. But fans of her original recordings weren’t disappointed either, with “Brave,” “Pash,” and a reggae-flavoured “Bedroom Eyes” finding their way into the set. I think we all had as much fun dancing along to those songs as the permanently smiley songstress did performing them.

Just when we thought we might have seen the last of the rain it began to bucket down again. I was beginning to really resent being cold and wet until Simply Red appeared. They are just that good.

Mick Hucknall is the quintessential frontman. He knows how to work a stage, and his voice isn’t showing any signs of old age. In this age of technical wizardry it’s so rare to see a band that can reproduce that studio quality in their live performance, but Simply Red can. His vocals are effortless, flawless.

His sexy dance moves and charisma may ensure all eyes are on Mick, but every member of the Simply Red band has a role to play. They are such superb musicians, bringing these iconic songs to life with guitars, saxophone, and keys.

This concert was a celebration of 25 years of fabulous music, and celebrate we did. I only wish I hadn’t found myself stuck amongst drunken yobbos. Have fun by all means, but no one needs to drink so much they’re falling over and becoming obnoxious. They may not remember this concert for years to come, but I certainly will.

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Glen Hansard, Marketa Irglova, and The Frames @ Sydney Opera House, 28 January 2009

Once upon a time Glen Hansard was the lead singer of Irish group The Frames. They had some moderate success, but he dreamed of more. On a trip to Sydney with his bandmates he stood in the Botanic Gardens, looked across at the Opera House, and said to himself “I want to play there.”

A lot has happened since Glen decided he wanted to perform at our iconic venue. He made a little indie love story called Once. This tiny movie remarkably won best song at the Academy Awards in 2007. And last night, Glen Hansard played the Opera House.

The fairytale of Glen’s journey to Sydney’s hallowed halls is much like the fairytale I saw play out on stage last night. He performed his beautiful songs with The Frames and his movie love interest and now real life girlfriend, Marketa Irglova. Just like their cinematic characters, Glen was charming and funny if a little awkward. Marketa was sweet and quietly spoken, with a wicked sense of humour. Their affection for one another was obvious, and I was thrilled to bask in it.

There’s a reason why such a small film like Once caught the attention of the prestigious Academy. Its soundtrack is amazing. The songs come from a pure place, emotional without being flowery. Songs like the award winning “Falling Slowly” are delicate and romantic, longing, while others like “Leave” and “Say It to Me Now” are so raw they bleed. Some benefited from the lush treatment of the full band, while others were exquisite in their pared back arrangements.

Frames fans were not left disappointed, with the band treating us to many of their songs too. I admit I jumped onto the Glen Hansard bandwagon a little late so I wasn’t familiar with their earlier material, but it didn’t matter. Glen has a way about him that draws you in with poetic words and honesty.

Sitting in the audience, you can tell that we all knew we were witnessing something special. Whenever the band stood to leave the stage we’d all rise to our feet, letting them know how appreciative we were, secretly hoping they’d return once more. They did return, for a massive three encores. I think the band played until their hands were sore, and our clapping palms were too.

I walked out of the Opera House last night knowing I had experienced a truly great concert. To Glen, Marketa, and The Frames I say thank you.

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Howie Day @ Annandale Hotel, Sydney – 28 November 2008

On Friday I made the trip to the Annandale Hotel in Sydney to check out one of my favourite acts in the world, Howie Day.

That my country still hasn’t quite latched onto the music of this talented American is both a blessing and a curse. I’d love to see him in a venue that isn’t quite so cramped, and minus the sticky floors. But I can’t complain too much about the $22 cover charge!

An indulgent Italian meal in Leichardt kept me away from the first support act Fairy Light, but I arrived just in time for Sophie Koh. I’d heard good things about this Melbourne singer-songwriter and she didn’t disappoint. She reminded me a lot of Bic Runga, with a sweet voice and compelling folk melodies. That sounds like the formula of so many girls with guitars, but Sophie’s poetic lyrics and intricate music ensure she stays always just that little bit left of centre. Most of us didn’t know her songs, but she kept us enthralled so that by the time she played Radiohead’s “Creep” we were all happy to sing along.

It was nearly 11 by the time Howie took the stage. I must be getting old, because I was fading. I’m used to concerts that finish at 11, not start. But Howie roused me with a set that was perhaps even better than the last time he graced our shores. He seemed more relaxed this time around, willing to joke around with the audience. We were all with him, laughing as he showed us how he could speak backwards and make uncanny bird noises.

Howie often performs with a full band, but he doesn’t need one. Just as his personality is big enough to fill a stage, so is his sound. He exploits technology, creating loops which allow him to play lead guitar, bass guitar, and percussion all at the same time. It’s clever but never gimmicky, just another colour in Howie Day’s box of crayons.

Once his set was done I just about fell over with exhaustion, knowing I still had to make it home to the Central Coast before I could drop. When I returned to Central station at a little after midnight to find the next train wouldn’t leave until 1:45 am, I nearly cried. But would I do it all again to see a show like Howie’s? In a heartbeat!

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Def Leppard, Cheap Trick, and The Galvatrons @ Brisbane Entertainment Centre, 8 November 2008

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve just returned from a holiday in Brisbane. What was I doing there? Seeing bands of course! When my husband had a lukewarm reaction to Def Leppard and Cheap Trick’s Aussie tour, I decided to hop on a plane and have a girly weekend with my best friend Lisa.

Aussie retro rockers The Galvatrons scored the support slot for this vintage double act, and they couldn’t have been a better fit. Johnny Galvatron is a born performer, with bucketloads of energy and personality. The crowd might not have known most of their songs, but they clapped enthusiastically in time with the music anyway. For a support act to inspire such a response from the crowd is a massive achievement. Look out for these guys. They are so much fun, and they deserve to be huge.

Cheap Trick were up next, with a performance that made me appreciate The Galvatrons that much more. Technically I couldn’t fault them. The set list was jam packed with hits. But that passion, that sense of fun, that energy, was missing. All those elements are needed to really engage a crowd. Guitarist Rick Nielsen did his best to give the show a shot in the arm, but he was just one man and could only do so much. So I happily sang along to “The Flame,” “I Want You to Want Me,” “Dream Police,” and countless other hits but there was always this sense that it could have been so much better. Perhaps these guys have just been doing these same songs for so long they’re tired of them. I think it’s a mark of a great band though to keep that energy level up no matter how many times you’ve performed those hits.

All those things that I felt Cheap Trick lacked, Def Leppard had in spades. Like Cheap Trick, they’ve been around for nearly thirty years. But you wouldn’t know it. Joe Elliott strutted out on the catwalk, every inch the rock star, compelling us to clap along to the smash hit “Rocket.” Those massive songs just kept coming with such passion and enthusiasm it was almost as if they were being played for the first time. The band is filled with amazing musicians who know how to entertain. And the sounds that Rick Allen gets from his drum kit with just one arm would put most two-armed drummers to shame! A highlight of the set was the acoustic section, where the whole auditorium joined in singing “Two Steps Behind” and were just as excited about “Bringin’ on the Heartbreak.” Def Leppard haven’t played in Australia for 16 years, but were genuinely touched that we haven’t forgotten them. When they still play such fun, exciting sets, how could we? When they finished up that last song, a blistering version of “Let’s Get Rocked” we all rose to our feet for the longest standing ovation I can remember. They earned it.

It’s been a long time since I’ve travelled interstate for a show, but the brilliance of The Galvatrons and Def Leppard made it worth my while. I only hope Def Leppard keep their promise and return to our shores soon. Until then, I might just have to check out a few more Galvatrons shows!

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Daryl Braithwaite @ Lizotte’s – 1 November 2008

Last night I was back at Lizotte’s. I’m beginning to think I should just set up a bed out back and be done with it! This time I was enticed there by the prospect of seeing Aussie music legend Daryl Braithwaite.

But before all that we were treated to the musical stylings of Jess Locke. I was initially entranced by this folk singer with the pure voice and her quiet acoustic guitar strummings. But pretty soon the lack of variety in her songs made me lose interest. Her introspective tunes were well crafted, but ultimately depressing. When she introduced a track called “Happy Song” I perked up looking forward to the change of pace. Yet as the lyrics told us, she tried to write a happy song but it didn’t work out! Jess has a real talent, but some light and shade would make her music a lot more accessible.

Jess might not know how to have fun, but Daryl sure does. I’m not sure how I’ve made it to my age without seeing him live, but I definitely won’t wait long before repeating the experience. From Sherbet to his solo career, Daryl’s been around for an awfully long time. He’s had hit after hit, and he crammed as many of them as he could into his set.

Daryl’s appeal crosses all generations. My mum used to squeal over him when he was the long-haired frontman of Sherbet, while I remember Rise being one of my primary school soundtracks. No matter when you knew him, his songs are classics ingrained in us all. So it took little prompting for Daryl to engage us all in a little sing-along session.

Iconic tunes like “Howzat,” “One Summer,” and “As The Days Go By” sat comfortably alongside covers of James Reyne’s “Slave” and Free’s “Wishing Well.” Daryl performs with energy and a healthy dose of humour, and as a member of his audience you find yourself having just as much fun as he appears to.

By the closing number, “The Horses,” we were all on our feet and singing raucously. Our applause was enthusiastic and the smiles on our faces wide. After a show like that, it’s not hard to see why Daryl Braithwaite continues to be a strong force in the Australian music industry.

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Live and Local @ Lizotte’s, Kincumber – 29 October 2008

Last night I headed to Lizotte’s to catch their Live and Local music showcase. These nights are a wonderful initiative designed to encourage music fans to get out midweek and discover some wonderful new talent. We were lured there by former Australian Idol contestant Ben McKenzie’s slot on the bill, and were delighted to find he wasn’t the only artist worth seeing.

Joe Kalou was first up with a set of originals peppered with a few crowd-pleasing covers. This was music at its most basic, and its most pure. An acoustic guitar, some cleverly crafted lyrics, and a sweet voice is all you really need to captivate an audience. His flawless good looks don’t hurt either! Joe had the audience in the palm of his hand, and when he broke into his own renditions of Ben Harper’s “Steal My Kisses” and Jason Mraz’s “I’m Yours” we were all happy to sing along.

Hayden French followed with his unique blend of pop, soul, and blues. As I listen back to his recordings on his MySpace I remember just how good his music is, but for some reason his performance didn’t draw me in. Technically Hayden and his band were beyond reproach, but right now they seemed to be missing that X factor. Still, with songs this good it’s only a matter of time before it all clicks. Maybe I’d have been a little more receptive if I wasn’t so tired!

Mark Cashin and The Lil Hussy’s woke me up with their explosive rock numbers. These guys were a real surprise package. They took the stage looking like they’d just stepped off a pirate ship, but delivered surprisingly rich acoustic rock numbers in the vein of Fuel or Stone Temple Pilots. Mark Cashin is a charismatic frontman, and his supporting musicians are all top notch. All the right elements were there, and I was sorry to see their set end.

Ben McKenzie closed the show with a set that can only be described as sublime. Ben first captivated me on the last season of Australian Idol. He’s clearly left the show behind him though, relishing the opportunity to perform his originals. He still dabbles in cover versions, but they’re more obscure choices than the judges would ever approve of. Songs by George, Angus & Julia Stone, and Brooke Fraser seem right at home next to Ben’s own lush compositions. He becomes one with the piano, and it’s impossible to look away. Again, Ben’s set was over far too soon.

With bellies full of delicious Lizotte’s food and our heads full of such amazing music, my husband and I left determined to visit another Live and Local showcase. What a wonderful way to break up your working week! Click here to see who’s playing at the next one!

I know we aren’t all lucky enough to live close to Lizotte’s, so here’s a video of one of Ben’s original songs for all those fans out there!

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jazz in the Vines @ Tyrells Winery, Hunter Valley – 25 October 2008

Rain plagued New South Wales last week. But it was almost as if the weather gods knew that I was heading to Jazz in the Vines at Tyrells Winery on Saturday, because those storm clouds disappeared to reveal a glorious day. The sunshine was just the first thing that went right that day.

We arrived with just enough time to set up our deck chairs and purchase a bottle of verdelho from one of the six wineries on hand before the entertainment began. We settled in to enjoy the instrumental brilliance of Newcastle jazz outfit the Adam Miller Band. Adam Miller is a charismatic front man, open with the crowd and keen to share the stories of the tunes he’s written. With an understanding of the meaning behind the melodies, I found myself engaged from the start of his set to the end.

The dual stage set-up meant that we didn’t have to wait long for the Royal Australian Air Force band, Force 10. I expected a traditional brass sound as regimented as their uniforms, but was pleasantly surprised at their sense of fun. We happily sang along to big band classics like “World on a String” and “Under My Skin.” There’s a reason why these songs from the 20s and 30s are classics, and jazz fans young and old ate them up. The combination of booming drums, rich brass instruments, a tinkling piano and velvety smooth vocals was heavenly. Needless to say, Force 10 were an unexpected joy.

I’ve been a big fan of Australian soul legend Renee Geyer for as long as I can remember. I’ve seen countless shows over the years, but for some reason this set didn’t come quite up to par for me. Her sultry voice was in fine form, and she delivered hit after hit including “Heading in the Right Direction” and “Say I Love You.” But her snotty attitude took a little of the gloss off. Renee complained about the cameramen filming her, whining that she wasn’t dressed well enough. The cameramen complied to placate her diva behaviour, and the big screens were promptly switched off. I was close enough to the stage to see Renee, but I’m sure the people perched up the back of the vineyard didn’t appreciate her bitching. Renee could have taken a lesson from the music fans dancing freely in front of her; she really needed to lighten up and just have some fun!

Someone who does know how to have fun is James Morrison, who took to the stage with his brother John Morrison’s Swing City Big Band. Who else can get away with a fast and furious rendition of The Flintstone’s theme, complete with a little audience participation? James wowed us with jazz and Latin standards delivered with intensity and abandon. The highlight was when he took a trumpet in one hand and a trombone in the other, and took turns playing some wild one-handed licks. I guess he really does have more musical talent in one hand than I do in my entire body!

John and his band stuck around to support Glenn Shorrock. This Aussie music legend drew from his own extensive back catalogue and some classic jazz standards for an unforgettable set. Anyone who wasn’t already dancing soon found their feet when Glenn belted out the hits from Little River Band, Axiom, and the big band masters. We all knew every word to every song, and sung along enthusiastically. I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to catch my first Glenn Shorrock show. It definitely won’t be the last.

American expat Lisa Hunt closed the show with a set jam-packed with soul classics. From Motown to the disco dance halls, Lisa ensured we all had a good time. I never thought I’d see someone best Renee Geyer, but Lisa’s joy and utter abandon made this set so much more enjoyable. My feet were sore, and I was a little hot and sweaty by the close, but I left determined to make the pilgrimage to Jazz in the Vines next year.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Tony Hadley and Paul Young @ Wests Leagues Club, Newcastle – 22 October 2008

Last night I achieved a childhood dream. I saw Tony Hadley and Paul Young in concert.

Some of my younger readers might be asking “Who?” For their benefit, here’s a history lesson. I was lucky enough to be born in the 1980s. In this glorious decade Paul Young and Tony Hadley topped the charts, Paul with his solo career and Tony as lead singer of Spandau Ballet. These days they’re a bit older, a little heavier, but Paul and Tony are still delivering those hits to their faithful fans.

The show opened with both 80s icons taking the stage for a surprise duet of the Don Henley classic “Boys of Summer.” I was so overwhelmed with seeing both men on stage at once I immediately dug my camera out of my bag. Apparently it didn’t realise what a significant musical moment this was, because it refused to play. I couldn’t believe it. I would love to have a photo to show you, but it just wasn’t to be.

My despair at the camera situation faded though once Tony left the stage to allow Paul to shine in the spotlight. He took us down memory lane early with “Love of the Common People.” Poor Paul’s voice isn’t a patch on what it used to be, but we were happy to sing along loudly and make up for his vocal flaws. He was certainly energetic though, and no one could accuse him of failing to entertain.

After a few solo moments Tony returned to join Paul in his smash hit “Senza Uno Donna.” Then it was Paul’s time to rest while Tony belted out some Spandau Ballet classics. Unlike Paul, Tony was in fine voice. When I was busy swooning over him as a girl I don’t think I realised exactly how well he sings. And for the record, despite the extra kilos he’s gained, Tony Hadley still makes me swoon!

The night continued in much the same vein, with solo hits interspersed with some memorable covers and duets. It was an inspired format which kept the energy levels up and everyone in the room engaged. These guys know they are able to tour today because they had some massive hits twenty years ago. They’re appreciative of their fans’ loyalty, so they’re happy to play the classics the supporters love.

The 80s wasn’t about particularly deep music, but what it lacked in messages it made up for in fun. I had a ball dancing with the other adoring girls up the front, singing along to every word of songs like “Come Back and Stay” and “Gold.”

But what I will remember most about last night is that I heard my favorite song in the world live. That song is “True.” Yes it’s overplayed and overblown, but seeing Tony perform it right there in front of me was something I’ll never forget.

After the show Tony and Paul decided to again thank the fans for their devotion by sticking around for autographs and photos. Again, I cursed my petulant camera. So I don’t have the photo to prove I met my childhood heroes, but I do have this concert ticket. And I have the memory of Tony wrapping me up in a cuddle and kissing me on the cheek!

Tomorrow I will go back to being a serious music journalist. But right now I’m happy to just be a gushing 80s music fan.

Image source: own photo  

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Newton Faulkner and Sara Bareilles @ The Enmore, Sydney – 8th September 2008

Ordinarily when I see a show it’s one that I couldn’t pass up. I may be a music writer, but I won’t go and see just anybody. So when I attend a concert I tend to be a real fan, one of those people who knows all the words to all the songs.

It wasn’t the case last night when I ventured out to catch Sara Bareilles and Newton Faulkner at The Enmore. My wonderful friend Jaime found herself on the guest list and I was lucky enough to be her plus one. We only knew the singles, but we’re both such music fans we were thrilled to see these talented newcomers.

We might have scored comp tickets, but don’t think we were hob-nobbing with the industry elite. They were general admission, a thought which initially made me groan. You know how much I hate standing for an entire show. So it was a pleasant surprise to walk in, find a comfortable position, and stand there happily for the rest of the show. Where was the pushing and obnoxiousness I remember from my general admission days of old? It seemed these punters would much rather listen to the music, dance a little, and not bother anyone else. I’d like to whole heartedly thank the audience for being so brilliant.

With Old Man River a late scratching from the bill, Sara Bareilles was up first. I was utterly transfixed by her. It takes a certain kind of performer to captivate while sitting at a piano, but she pulled it off. There’s a lot more to this girl than “Love Song.” Her songs are accessible yet quirky, a real breath of fresh air. And her personality is so warm. She endeared herself to us all when she said how much she loves Strictly Ballroom, and how starstruck she felt meeting Sonia Kruger. The set was an opportunity to showcase her debut album Little Voice, so it was an unexpected treat to see Sara step away from the piano for an amazing cover of The Beatles “Oh! Darling.” Sara was only the warm-up act, but I was so sorry to see her leave the stage! I may not have known much about her before, but I made sure to grab a copy of her CD from the merch stand.

Sara may be a big star, but Newton Faulkner was clearly the man everyone came to see. The enthusiastic audience joined in singing his songs from the start, embracing this talented Brit and his debut album Hand Built by Robots.

There was a lot that I didn’t realise about Newton Faulkner. I knew he was a good guitarist, but I didn’t realise he was a great one. He uses his instrument as both a melodic and rhythmic one, tapping out the beats while his fingers pluck the notes. He knows what his guitar is capable of, and pushes the envelope to create something amazing. Newton’s not content with just playing a regular acoustic guitar though. He also brought out a child’s guitar for a few songs, including a fun cover of “Blue Shadows” from cult comedy The Three Amigos.

This cover hints at the sort of unexpected comedy I experienced at the show. I had no idea how funny this British star is! He loved playing the unexpected, including a rollicking version of “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)” and a Latin-inspired take on “Uncomfortably Slow,” complete with a nonsense language! But it wasn’t all fun and games. I appreciated the stories behind the songs, a touch many artists forget but one that brings a live show beyond simply hearing the CD.

Last night I was given the opportunity to experience two of the hottest new names in the music industry. If this is what these artists can produce at the start of their careers, their futures look very bright indeed.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bimbadgen Blues @ Bimbadgen Estate, Hunter Valley – 6 September 2008

I had been looking forward to Sunday’s Bimbadgen Blues concert for months. I’ve long been a fan of this amazing winery and the relaxed vibe of the concerts it hosts. Yet as the big day approached, my excitement turned to dread. Anyone who lives anywhere close by knows why. The weather was atrocious, with the rain relentless.

As I drove to Newcastle to meet my father, it was no exception. In fact, I didn’t feel comfortable pushing my little Festiva above 90 kays! We both considered not making the trip to the Hunter, but our eternally optimistic natures convinced us to make the trip. I’m so glad we did.

As we approached our Cessnock, the clear skies brightened our moods. It was still a grey dreary and freezing cold morning, but it was at least dry!

Bimbadgen Blues is a different beast than the Day on the Green concerts I’m used to attending at the winery. The obvious contrast is the two stages. It’s a smart move for a concert with such a crowded bill. It allowed us to see full lengths sets of all the artists, rather than only a couple of songs from the lesser known performers. The sets were staggered, so punters could walk between the stages and experience non-stop music. While one band was setting up, there was always another show not too far away.

My dad and I were a little too lazy for that, and we were happy to set up camp at the main stage. The rain had scared away many people, but the enthusiasm of those left made up for it. The wine flowed freely as it always does at these winery shows, but everyone was so well behaved. They danced, they sang, and they had a fantastic time. So too did the performers, who clearly appreciated the fans braving the cold and intermittent rain.

We arrived midway through Mojo Webb’s set. I’d never heard of him before, but this buzzing blues artist has a way of drawing you in. The eclectic tunes were brilliant, with elements of jazz, funk, jungle beats, and even a little bluegrass thrown in. Mojo is a real showman, even stepping down off the stage at one point to get a little closer to the appreciative audience.

Dallas Frasca provided a real change of pace with her bright red dreadlocks, vibrant green dress, and earthy blues sound. Her raspy vocals bear an uncanny resemblance to Janis Joplin, and she’s got the wild stage persona to match. In fact, as fans discarded their shoes to dance in the mud it was easy to imagine we were at Woodstock. Dallas’ voice was amazing and her larger than life personality matched it, but there wasn’t a lot of variety to her set. I’d have loved to hear her belt out something a little more melodic. Perhaps a few Janis classics?

The occasional showers turned to steady rain as Josh Pyke took the stage. But I’d been waiting all day to see this Australian singer-songwriter, and I wasn’t going to let a little rain spoil my fun. He gave everything to the patient and soggy crowd, producing an amazing set filled with old favourites and some exciting new tracks. His poetic lyrics and natural warmth were all the sunshine I needed for that hour and a half.

When Josh left the stage though, I was just wet. Sadly, the rain was getting worse. My father and I tried to wait it out, reasoning that you can’t get any wetter than wet, but it was just far too unpleasant to persevere. Like many, we decided to count our losses and skip out Australian blues legends Chain. I didn’t want to miss their set, but it just wasn’t worth braving the storm any longer.

Bad weather conditions are just the luck of the draw, and it’s a shame that they had to end my Bimbadgen Blues experience prematurely. But as unpleasant as the rain was, I still had an amazing time. The crowd was beautiful. The performers were top notch, and gave us everything they had. The day ran so smoothly despite the terrible weather. The wine was pretty fantastic too. I’ll definitely be back next year. I just hope the sun is shining!

Image source: own photo