Category: Concert Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Lionel Richie, Marcia Hines, and Mahalia Barnes @ Bimbadgen Estate, Hunter Valley – 8 December 2007

Attending a concert the day before moving house may be insane to some, but that’s exactly what I did last Saturday. I left the chaotic mess of boxes in my apartment for a little music therapy at one of the Hunter Valley’s famous Day on the Green events. This time around I was treated to the musical stylings of Mahalia Barnes, Marcia Hines, and Lionel Richie.

Jimmy Barnes’ little girl Mahalia proved she’s all grown up with a killer set of original soul tunes and some classic covers. She’s got an amazing set of pipes, and injects such passion into her performance that it matters little whether you know the songs or not. Her closer of “Proud Mary” was every inch as good as Tina Turner’s.

Next up was Australian Idol judge and soul diva Marcia Hines. Miss Marcia’s been doing this for around thirty years, and it shows. She had us dancing in the aisles with disco standards like “Shake Your Groove Thing,” “Disco Inferno,” and her own smash hit “You.” We were also treated to some more reflective moments from her new album Life, including brilliant takes on “Everybody Hurts,” “No Ordinary Love” and “Get Here.”

While Marcia and Mahalia wowed us, it was clear that there was just one person the crowd was there to see. That man was Lionel Richie. He’s not the most handsome man in the world, but there’s something about him that had the females from 15 to 50 on their feet.

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Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Elton John @ Tempus Two Winery, Hunter Valley – 1 December 2007

On Saturday I made the trek to the Hunter Valley’s Tempus Two Winery to see rock music royalty, Sir Elton John.

Young soul singer Eran James kicked off the event with songs from his new album, Ten Songs About Love. It blows my mind that this kid is just 18 years old. He’s got such a strong emotive voice, and the simple acoustic guitar backing let these songs really shine. But this wasn’t the venue for Eran. The punters were a lot more interested in chatting amongst themselves and sampling the winery’s goods than listening to this talented young singer. It’s a shame, because he really was very good.

The most startling thing is that the throng didn’t settle down for the main event. The rowdy drunks behind us loudly sang the wrong songs, or the wrong lyrics. The chain-smoking couple in front of us also put a dampener on my concert experience. I might suggest that I just got bad seats, but looking around I saw so many people getting up and moving around during the show that it staggered me. For the life of me I’ll never understand why people spend good money on a concert if they’re going to be disruptive or get so drunk they won’t remember it.

Again, it’s unfortunate because Elton did everything right. He strikes such a commanding figure at the piano, with his masterful playing and dazzling sequined jacket. Other artists may need a band to provide such a rich sound, but Elton does it effortlessly alone. He took us on a journey through his catalogue, opening with his first hit “Your Song.” The set was peppered with monster hits, and a few more obscure songs from the die-hard fans.

Continue reading “Elton John @ Tempus Two Winery, Hunter Valley – 1 December 2007” →

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bobby Flynn @ Lizotte’s, Kincumber – 1 November 2007

Who’s the most influential artist to come out of Australian Idol? Is it Shannon Noll, whose skills saw him working with some of America’s best songwriters on his new album? What about Anthony Callea, who’s earning rave reviews for his work in musical theatre? Well, if you believe this year’s Australian Idol finalists, the one that’s made the greatest impact is Bobby Flynn.

He may not have set the charts alight or packed out an entertainment centre, but last year’s seventh place-getter inspired more Idols this year than any other.

“I believe he completely changed Aussie Idol,” said Matt Corby. “He changed the rules,” added Jacob Butler.

That Bobby could do so much during his relatively short time in the competition is a testimony to his talent. It’s something I was lucky enough to witness for myself last night at Lizotte’s. This intimate little venue in Kincumber is a world away from the massive Idol stage, but that’s a very good thing.

Bobby was ably supported by Canadian singer/songwriter Brian Campean. I can’t decide whether Brian was a genius or a madman. He could be both. His soaring voice was reminiscent of Jeff Buckley’s, and his guitar skills were incredible. But his unconventional melodies and lyrics struggled to connect with the crowd, who seemed more intent in gossiping amongst themselves. It’s a shame, as there was a lot to enjoy in his unique performance.

The chatter died down once Bobby took the stage. His original songs draw you in, with their ethereal melodies and his haunting vocals. I didn’t know most of these songs, but it allowed me to focus on their beautiful words. He’s not conventionally handsome, but his natural charisma casts a spell on his adoring audience. Watching him is indeed magical.

Songwriting is Bobby’s first love, but he’s not afraid to pepper his set with the cover versions Idol fans voted for. I was delighted to hear his evocative cover of The Church’s “Under the Milky Way” and his show-stopping rendition of “Superfreak.”

I caught up with Bobby after the show and was impressed by his gentle nature and his willingness to spend time with his fans. This was his third sold-out show at Lizotte’s, and he’s already making plans to return. I personally can’t wait.

Image source: Jaymis Loveday @ Flickr

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Daughtry Showcase @ The Gaelic Theatre, Sydney – 25 September 2007

Sydney was treated to an outstanding rock show last night when American band Daughtry joined Brisbane’s Small Mercies at The Gaelic Theatre. It took me some effort to drag myself to Sydney for the show, as I’d been feeling unwell all day, but I’m so glad I did.

The tiny Surry Hills venue was crowded with hundreds keenly anticipating Daughtry’s first Sydney appearance. The upper level, usually the place to be for a relaxed concert experience, was reserved for VIPs, leaving the average punters packed in like sardines. I really didn’t think I was up to standing all night, but a lovely security guard took pity on my poor health and promptly found me a stool and water. I may not have lasted til the end of the show without him!

Now comfortably sitting and a little more hydrated, I was feeling pretty good when Small Mercies took the stage. I’d never seen these guys before, but they’ve been big in Queensland for years. After seeing their set, I’m glad the rest of the country appears to be catching on. The four-piece showed real diversity in their half-hour slot. Their heavy tracks pleased the rock-loving crowd, who also enjoyed singing along to the new single “Innocent.”

Daughtry were up next, with a blistering set that matched the anticipation in the room. They made it clear they were there to rock, opening with “Crashed.”

Chris Daughtry is such an engaging frontman. He didn’t take his foot from the throttle at any point, delivering each track with maximum intensity. And there’s no denying that he’s sexy as all get out.

But I also appreciated the way he engaged with the audience. Yes, he encouraged the crowd to sing along and clap their hands, but his efforts went beyond that. He’d only been in Australia for a few days, yet he managed to weave some of our more colourful terms into his banter. He called us “mates,” asked how all the “sheilas” were, and even admitted that he was a “bogan.”

The concert was billed as an album showcase, so it was little surprise to hear most of the tracks from Daughtry’s self-titled album. Their killer cover of Alice in Chains’ “Nutshell” was an unexpected treat. The hour-long set was over far too quickly and soon we were hearing the last song of the night, the frantic “There and Back Again.”

Chris said they’ll be back next year, and I look forward to doing it all again then. Of course, next time they’ll play much larger venues than this, and the tickets will be more expensive. Knowing this just makes me appreciate last night’s gig that much more.

If you couldn’t make it to the show, or you’d just like to relive it, here’s a video my husband took last night during “It’s Not Over.” Unfortunately he realised he was filming side-on a little too late, but he does right it during the first chorus!

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Tori Amos @ Civic Theatre, Newcastle – 18 September 2008

Last night American songstress Tori Amos brought her breathtaking American Doll Posse Tour to Newcastle. Each show is divided into two distinct and unique parts. The first brings one of the American Dolls, made famous by her latest album, to life. Tori appears as one of the five unique characters which represent facets of the artist, and indeed all women.

In Newcastle, the sensual Santa made a dramatic entrance with a platinum blonde wig, stunning white minidress, and an explosive performance of “Body and Soul.” With Santa on show, the first portion of the concerts drew heavily from ‘her’ songs on American Doll Posse, including “Dragon,” “Secret Spell,” and “You Can Bring Your Dog.” Yet she still found time to ‘cover’ one of Tori Amos’ classics, “Sugar.”

I was awestruck watching Santa’s passionate set. While American Doll Posse was conceived as five separate voices, with Tori Amos as the mouthpiece for all the characters tend to blur. The theatrical element of the live show gave me a new appreciation of who Santa really is, and her part in the quintet. I only wish I could see more shows this tour to have the same understanding of the other dolls.

A spectacular light show and “Professional Widow” over the PA marked the end of the first act. Then Tori emerged, her long red hair clashing delightfully with a garish red sequined jumpsuit. She began with “Big Wheel,” then launched into “Black Dove” which seemed to assure us we’d get to hear more than the new album.

Tori is a woman of few words. As a matter of fact, the only time she actually spoke was to introduce the band. Yet what she fails to say verbally, she makes up for with her impassioned performance. She’s strong, driven, feminine, blissful, tender, outrageous, and so many other positive adjectives. Her set managed to satisfy both casual fans and the more dedicated. I attended the show with my sisters, and they were thrilled to hear the hits “Cornflake Girl” and “God.” Personally my biggest delights came when she played the tracks I didn’t expect.

“Honey” was the first of these, a B-side the “Cornflake Girl” single. My heart soared when she began “Northern Lad,” one of my very favourite Tori songs, and “Tear In Your Hand” was so joyous I couldn’t help but grin ear to ear.

We were spoilt with not one but two encores. Every time she stood to leave the crowd rose to give this rare talent the standing ovation she deserved. Perhaps that’s why she kept coming back. Watching the awestruck crowd rise for the last time, as the closing strains of “Hotel” faded, I knew every person in that room was as moved as I was.

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Steely Dan, World Party and Gangajang @ Bimbadgen Estate, Hunter Valley – 15 September 2007

This update has been a little slow coming, but I have a good reason I swear. You see, I’ve spent the weekend in the Hunter Valley catching Steely Dan at Bimbadgen Estate. The show was one of the fabulous A Day on the Green events, which is one of my favourite ways to see concerts. Where else can you enjoy a concert under the stars with delicious wine and a spread of gourmet cheeses and smoked salmon?

The afternoon kicked off with a performance by Australian rock pioneers Gangajang. I must admit, I didn’t have very high expectations, believing I knew nothing more than “Sounds of Then.” As it turned out, I knew a great deal more of their songs than I realised, but there was more than sing-a-long classics to their repertoire. They reminded me a lot of an older Cat Empire, with their eclectic tunes and good vibes.

I had similarly low expectations of the next act, Great Britain’s World Party. Again I felt I only knew one song, “Ship of Fools,” and on watching them I realised why. They weren’t bad, but there wasn’t anything remarkable about them at all. The songs melded together in a wave of bland until that signature tune, which failed to live up to the hype. Lead singer Karl Wallinger struggled to reach that high note, his age clearly showing.

The highlight of their set was the arrival of Australian Idol judge, Ian “Dicko” Dickson who actually took a seat virtually in front of me. Perving on Idol’s hot judge definitely made World Party’s boring music a bit easier to swallow.

Of course, the opening acts would never compare to the band we all came to see, Steely Dan. I must admit, the first few songs left me feeling frustrated. I’m not sure whether they were tracks from the most recent albums, but they certainly weren’t familiar to most of us. They were good, but after so much anticipation we were all dying to sing along.

They gave us that chance with the next song, “Hey Nineteen.” This is actually my favourite Steely Dan track, and I lapped it up. After that the hits seemed to come thick and fast: “Peg,” “Josie,” “Dirty Work,” “Black Friday,” and “Do It Again” were all highlights.

The band was one of the tightest I’ve ever seen. Every performer was individually brilliant, but together they were phenomenal. Drummer Keith Carlock deserves a special mention for the most amazing hand speed and energy I think I’ve ever seen. Of course original members Walter Becker and Donald Fagan were also sensational, still on top of their game despite doing this together for four decades.

However, towards the end the concert sadly lost its gloss for me, and many other fans. They did a big finish, then came back for the obligatory encore which ended with “Kid Charlemagne.” It’s a great song, but we were sure that wasn’t it. After all, they still hadn’t played “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number” or “Reelin’ in the Years.” We were all sure there’d be another encore, that there’s no way they’d leave us without playing at least one of those big hits, but soon the crew started to clear the stage.

I understand that performers can’t play everything, but these songs are the signature tunes. They were even featured on the ads for the tour. To use them to lure fans to the shows, but neglect to play them, almost feels like false advertising. Everything Steely Dan did on stage was wonderful, but sadly most of us will remember what they didn’t do.

Image source: Frontier Touring

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Powderfinger and Silverchair Hit Brisbane

Last Friday night seasoned concert goer Lisa Mayer, saw Silverchair and Powderfinger at Brisbane Entertainment Centre. I caught up with her for a chat about Powderfinger’s hometown gig.

Lisa’s a big fan of both bands, but she expected Silverchair’s performance would have the edge. The Newcastle lads opened the show with a rocking set, which included big hits “Without You,” “Greatest View,” and their latest smash “Straight Lines.”

While the band did their best to entertain, the local crowd seemed largely unmoved.

“Silverchair did rock, but the audience kind of didn’t. I wanted to stand up and dance but it wasn’t that kind of audience,” Lisa told me. “Other than that, I was really happy with Silverchair and I didn’t think that I could enjoy Powderfinger as much as I enjoyed them.”

When Powderfinger took to the stage, the audience became “the kind of hometown crowd that a band would be proud of.”

And the band delivered a set worthy of their adoring fans. A stripped-back acoustic version of “Sunsets” was “absolutely spine-tingling,” and “On My Mind” was a surprise with “Midnight Rambler” in the middle. But the real crowd-pleaser was “My Happiness” which encouraged a spontaneous sing-a-long.

Lisa said the song “saw the entire entertainment centre singing along while the band stood in amazement that everyone was singing their own song back to them, full volume. That had to be a spine-tingling moment for them. They all looked so happy to be there, so happy that they were with fellow Brisbanites and playing at the Entertainment Centre for the first time.”

So how much did Lisa love the show? Well, she’s going back to see the bands at the Gold Coast and Toowoomba later this week. Now that’s dedication.

Image source: jeaneeem @ Flickr

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Thirsty Merc @ Wyong Leagues – 17 August 2007

To say Thirsty Merc’s current touring schedule is tough is an understatement. 22 shows in 24 days, they told the enthusiastic crowd at Wyong Leagues last night. It’s enough to make anyone tired.

If they were fatigued, the group’s support act, The Hampdens, didn’t show it. After scoring high-profile support slots with Rob Thomas, Ray LaMontagne, and John Mayer, it’s a wonder that this fantastic indie group hasn’t made a bigger splash. In some ways it’s also a blessing.

With their intimate, personal songs, The Hampdens seemed more at ease on this smaller stage. Susannah Legge is a captivating frontwoman with a stunning voice, somehow strong but ethereal. The lads in the band are quiet achievers, but no less important for their role in creating a uniquely lush soundscape. While the crowd may not have recognised The Hampdens just yet, they clearly appreciated their stellar set.

While The Hampdens were on top of their game, I wasn’t as convinced by Thirsty Merc. Technically, these guys are very good at what they do. Each and every note is where it should be, as clear as it appeared on the album. Sadly though, this just wasn’t enough. The band bounced around and gave energetic performances, but for the most part it felt like there was a distinct wall between the group and the crowd.

Towards the end of the night they began to talk to the punters and share personal anecdotes, and from this point the performance improved. Yet I couldn’t help but feel it was too little too late. When a band gives little of themselves on stage, I’m left feeling like I should have saved my money and listened to the CD at home.

It wasn’t all bad though. I was particularly impressed when lead singer Rai Thistlethwayte put down his guitar and stepped behind the keyboard. The songs became more pared back, less about a performance than a message. You could have heard a pin drop during “Homesick.” The penultimate track, “The Vision,” spliced with Stevie Wonder’s “Master Blaster,” was also loads of fun. “20 Good Reasons” was a perfect closer, giving the audience a chance to join in with a sing-a-long.

It’s sad that The Merc couldn’t give as much early on as they did towards the end of their set. Perhaps they were simply too tired from their gruelling schedule. The vocal Central Coast seemed satisfied, but it all could have been so much better.

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Kaya @ Lizotte’s, Kincumber – 26 July 2007

Not a lot of good came from Channel Ten’s failed reality talent quest, The X Factor. The series winner’s Random, had two forgettable singles and faded into oblivion. Mark Holden embarrassed himself further. But there was a shining light in the lacklustre affair. It introduced Australia to Kaya.

These unconventional stars, with bare feet, quirky songs, and unmistakable harmonies worked their way into the hearts of the voting public. Their music defied classification, blending jazz, soul, blues, pop, and folk. That was almost two years ago now, and Kaya have stepped away from the spotlight to further develop their craft.

Last night they took to the stage at Lizotte’s. It was my third time seeing Kaya at this wonderful venue, and once again they delivered the kind of show that keeps me coming back.

Kaya’s set showcased their original songs, many of them familiar now that I’ve seen the group so many times, others new to my ears. However, no matter how many times I’ve heard each song, it always feels like the first time. Their harmonies weave effortlessly, with playful improvisations adding to the fun. The quartet also breathed new life into cover versions of “Buffalo Soldier,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” and John Butler Trio’s “Zebra.”

Unlike many modern acts, Kaya are truly a vocal group. The mellow tones of an acoustic guitar, drum brushes, and a spot of beatboxing accompanied a handful of tracks, but their voices are always the center. Many songs are fearlessly performed a capella, with the girls gaining strength from one another.

Individually, the talents of Alexandra Kaye, Juleiaah Boehm, Sally Stevens, and Emma Deans are fantastic. Together, they are truly sensational.

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Ian Moss @ Lizotte’s, Kincumber – 12 July 2007

I admit it; I’ve still got a crush on Ian Moss. It’s been 18 years since he released Matchbook and first set my nine-year-old heart a flutter. He’s older now, with shorter hair and a few more wrinkles, but there’s still a spark about this rock stalwart. It was this spark, and the promise of great food, that drew me to Mossy’s show at Lizotte’s last night.

I was happily tucking into my delicious fillet steak when the support act, Mike McCarthy, graced the stage. I didn’t know him, but was instantly taken in by his beautiful melodies and guitar skills. It’s a tough job to support a music legend. It’s even tougher for an unknown artist to sing originals. Yet Mike took the experience in his stride, playing with a quiet confidence that won over many of us.

Then Mossy took the stage, with acoustic guitar in hand. What followed was magical, and the crowd lapped up. You could heard a pin drop during his understated performance of “Georgia On My Mind,” this hush contrasting with raucous sing-a-longs to Cold Chisel classics. We doo doo doo-ed along with “Saturday Night,” and belted out “Choir Girl.”

Just when we thought he wasn’t going to play them, Ian Moss launched into the anthemic 80s hits, “Tucker’s Daughter” and “Telephone Booth.” When we were sure our voices were too hoarse to continue, he closed with a rollicking version of “Bow River.”

Through decades in the business, Ian Moss has developed a calm confidence in his delivery. He’s a selfless entertainer, aware of what the audience wants to hear and keen to deliver it. He may have risen to prominence for his guitar-playing prowess, but last night’s stripped-back show confirmed Ian Moss is a truly well rounded performer.

If you want to experience Ian Moss’ acoustic skills, check out his latest album, Let’s All Get Together.

Image source: own photo