Category: Concert Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bon Jovi @ ACER Arena, Sydney – 22 January 2008

I grew up in the 1980s. It was a decade of big hair, big shoulder pads, and big power chords. And if you were a young girl in the 80s, you probably had a dirty big crush on Jon Bon Jovi.

That was more than twenty years ago, but walking into Acer Arena last night it seemed some things never change. While I spotted quite a few mullets, the hair was a little smaller. I didn’t see anyone wearing shoulder pads. But chunky chords are alive and well. And if the deafening squeals were anything to go by, the very same girls still have the hots for Jon.

The music wasn’t much different either. Sure Bon Jovi are still releasing albums and their newer sound has a more country edge, but that didn’t stop them busting out classic cuts from New Jersey, Slippery When Wet, and Keep the Faith.

Considering their massive back catalogue, opening with “Great Balls of Fire” was an odd choice. But the crowd screamed their approval as they watched Jon gyrate like a yesteryear teen idol. You can only imagine the way the already frenzied stadium erupted when they began their next song, “You Give Love a Bad Name.” Hit after hit followed, punctuated by new songs which allowed us to catch our breath a little.

I’ve often wondered how Jon stays looking so svelte, but now I know. He bounces around like he has springs attached to his feet, jumping around the stage with an energy that would impress men half his age. I think I lost a few kilos dancing along last night, so it’s little surprise he stays so slim.

Just when I was sure I couldn’t stand any more Jon moved from the main stage to a smaller one, right in front of me. OK, four rows of fans separated us, but this was so much closer to my childhood crush than I ever imagined I’d be. I got my second wind as we were treated to an amazing acoustic set, starting with “Knocking on Heaven’s Door” and moving into “Blaze of Glory.” Richie joined him on the small stage then for “Someday I’ll Be Saturday Night.” I was having such a good time, which only got better when they launched into two of my favourites “Never Say Goodbye” and “Blood on Blood.”

Then it was back to the main stage for more rapid-fire hits: “Keep the Faith,” “Sleep When I’m Dead,” “Who Says You Can’t Go Home,” and “Livin’ on a Prayer.” The crowd wasn’t letting them off that easily, and it didn’t take much encouragement before the lads were back for an encore. I struggled to think of the songs they hadn’t played yet, but of course there was more to hear.

We were all back on our feet to enjoy the final three tracks: “Have a Nice Day,” “Wanted Dead or Alive,” and the obvious closer “I Love This Town.”

Sydney loves Bon Jovi too. They gave us three solid hours of entertainment, and we were all thankful for it. My feet hurt, despite me discarding my high-heeled boots early in the night. My throat was sore from the singing and screaming. Sweat dripped from every pore of my body. I had a brilliant time.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Shannon Noll @ Deep Rock Drive – 19 January 2008

Last night I watched Shannon Noll doing his thing in Las Vegas courtesy of Deep Rock Drive. This cool new website allows people anywhere in the world to experience live music from the comfort of their own homes.

I must admit, I was a little nervous about how my poor Broadband 1 connection would cope with the show but the technology was flawless. It’s like being at your local venue, with a few added extras. I was offered four different camera angles, allowing me to perve on the sexy scarf-wearing guitarist or watch the sort of dynamic footage seen on concert DVDs. The show is also completely interactive, allowing fans to vote for the songs they want to hear from the setlist provided.

I loved this feature, although it frustrated me for the first few songs. I was keen to hear “Shine,” but the tracks from Turn It Up proved popular with fans. He kicked off with the rocking “Everybody Needs a Little Help” before slowing things down a little with “Walls.”

I was so impressed by Shannon’s energy. It was 1 am in the US when the concert began, but if he was fatigued he didn’t let it show. This was the second of Shannon’s Deep Rock Drive gigs, but he seemed determined to give everything to the largely Australian crowd. He happily answered questions about everything the internet viewers wanted to know, from the success of his American shows to the fate of his flavour saver.

A stripped-down version of “What about Me?” was a highlight, followed by my song “Shine.” From there I seemed to be in tune with the rest of the viewing audience, as the set followed my own requests. The vitality of “Shine” was matched by the raw emotion of the ballads “In Pieces,” and “Now I Run.”

I couldn’t help laughing as Shannon played the final song from the set list, “Loud,” and another check box appeared on the screen with one word: Encore. Of course I’d have to click it. It seems like the rest of the virtual crowd did too, because we were then treated to “Lonely” and “Lift.”

Watching Shannon Noll there in America as I sat in Australia, I felt a great sense of pride. He’s come a long way since I first saw him as a slightly nervous rocker on Australian Idol. He’s become such a natural and powerful performer, and an accomplished songwriter. It’s only a matter of time before the United States and the rest of the world realises how talented he is.

Image source: Deep Rock Drive

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jackie Bristow, Rick Price, and Mark Punch @ Lizotte’s, Kincumber – 12 January 2008

Gigs are a lot like singles really. Most of the time you’ve got your standard format: the big commercial success and the B-side. Everyone’s there for the big hit while the B-side, which may actually be very good, tends to act as a bit of padding.

But occasionally you happen upon a show that’s a double A-side: two accomplished artists sharing the bill without any hint of ego. Last night I was lucky enough to attend such a show when Jackie Bristow, Rick Price, and session guitarist extraordinaire Mark Punch graced the stage at Lizotte’s.

I wasn’t familiar with Jackie’s work before the show, but the New Zealand songbird instantly drew me in. She performs with such joy and honesty, it’s impossible not to like her. Jackie’s songs are simple and heartfelt, and their stripped back acoustic delivery allowed the lyrics to shine. I was captivated by her voice: pure and sweet like honey. Needless to say, I willingly forked over some cash for a copy of Jackie’s album after the set.

In constrast, Rick Price seems like an old friend. I first saw him in the early 90s when, as a pimply-faced teenager, I skipped school to see him perform at my local shopping centre. We’ve both aged tremendously since then, but some things never change. He can still take me back to my youth with songs like “Not a Day Goes By,” “Walk Away Renee,” and “Heaven Knows.”

But Rick is more than a faded popstar looking to cash in on a nostalgic crowd. His new songs were magical, showing us that he’s definitely still got it. Without a trace of ego, Rick invited Jackie on stage to accompany him on a cover of The Everly Brothers’ ballad “Let It Be Me.” Watching Rick, Jackie, and Mark together on stage was one of those moments where you know you’re witnessing something special.

I left Lizotte’s with that sensation still lingering. What a night.

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.

Continue reading “Lionel Richie, Marcia Hines, and Mahalia Barnes @ Bimbadgen Estate, Hunter Valley – 8 December 2007” →

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