Category: 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

"Autumn Never Fall" – Sunwrae Ensemble

One of the things I love most about my job is that I get to experience so much fantastic local music. I get to listen to sounds that wouldn’t ordinarily, and thus my tastes are ever changing. This week I came across one of those unique gems, and it’s made quite an impression.

Autumn Never Fall is the latest album from Melbourne-based “nu-chamber” group Sunwrae Ensemble. Like traditional chamber music, the songs are richly layered with a beautiful blend of sounds, each combining to create a sound more exquisite than any instrument could create alone. Piano, strings, wind, and percussion all work together to give each song a lush texture.

The classical influences are obvious, but the band’s jazz leanings give the songs a modern accessibility. At times it feels like the players are simply jamming, and that vibrant spontaneity is just so compelling.

I’m a girl who adores singing along to her favorite CDs, so listening to an instrumental recording such as this was a new experience for me. But in stepping out of my musical comfort zone, I’ve found an album that is truly special.

Image used with permission from Sunwrae Ensemble

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

"Good Lovin’" – David Campbell

I received David Campbell’s Good Lovin’ as a Christmas present and I haven’t been able to prise it from my stereo since. I was a big fan of David’s “Swing Sessions” albums, and wondered where he’d take us next. This nostalgic journey to the 1960s was a little unexpected, but it all makes sense.

It’s a real departure from the standards he tackled in the past, but it’s not so far removed that he risks alienating his ever faithful audience. These songs will resonate with the mums and dads who remember the first time they heard them, while David’s younger fans might learn a thing or two about musical history. David’s obviously a fan of the songs he covers and he stays true to the originals, yet the warmth of David’s voice ensures no song ever feels like a carbon copy.

A duet with his own dad, the living legend Jimmy Barnes, on “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” is an obvious standout. But I can’t resist dancing around my loungeroom to “Now That I’ve Found You” and “Jackie Wilson Said.”

Good Lovin’ is fun, pure and simple. Every song is delivered with conviction and a healthy dose of charisma. Receiving it in my stocking has only made me hungrier for that tour in March!

Image source: David Campbell website

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

"Curiouser" – Kate Miller-Heidke

Kate Miller-Heidke is one of the most intriguing Australian musicians, so it makes sense that her second album is titled Curiouser.

It’s an eclectic collection of songs, from the sunny pop opener “The One Thing I Know” to the moving ballad “The Last Day on Earth.” The tunes might sound markedly different, but they’re unified by Kate’s clever lyrics and sense of fun.

This is a more commercial affair than Kate’s debut Little Eve, and initially that may disappoint some fans. Her operatic trills are scaled back, and songs like the single “Can’t Shake It” will sound right at home on sandwiched between Britney and Beyonce on the radio. But Kate cleverly stays just left of the mainstream, no matter how close to it she veers. These songs are more accessible to the masses, but they’re still highly original.

The tunes all clock in at around three minutes, helping the disc move at a frantic pace. I needed to play it through three times just to absorb it all, particularly those cheeky lyrics. I think every girl will relate to the sentiments in “God’s Gift to Women” and “I Like You Better When You’re Not Around”!

Kate Miller-Heidke has gone from strength to strength with Curiouser, a complex album that gets richer with every listen. I always knew she was brilliant, but this might just be the CD that convinces the rest of Australia. Take a look at this video for a taste of the album!

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

"Night & Day" – mrben

Sydney rockers mrben will release their debut album Night & Day later this month, but I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek.

The opening track, “Memory,” draws you in with its smouldering verses and blistering chorus. Things slow down a little on “One Man,” but while it’s somewhat calmer the song is certainly no less intense. Ben Wever’s emotive vocals see to that. “When You’re Gone” is sure to become a live favourite with its crunchy guitars and hook-laden lyrics.

This album has been four years in the making, and it shows. Mrben has laid down 11 solid songs that beg to be played again and again. The sound is more polished than most debuts. Clearly those years playing Sydney venues like the Gaelic Club, the Cat & Fiddle, and the Bridge Hotel have served the lads well.

Singer-songwriter Ben Wever enjoys exploring the darker side of the human experience, but the energy behind the songs ensures they never get too gloomy. His raspy vocals wrap around his lyrics with genuine conviction. This is clearly a man who’s really lived. We’ve seen drummer Jeff de Araugo as part of Sarah Blasko’s band, but this meatier material allows him to really let loose. Bassist Leighton Holloway completes the trio, unifying the rich sound.

Sydneysiders can catch mrben launching Night & Day at the Annandale Hotel on Wednesday 19 November.

Image source: mrben website

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