After four decades in the business, it’s amazing to think John Waite’s current Australian tour is his first. But it was a tour worth the wait for the faithful who’ve flocked to intimate venues around the country to see this talented British singer-songwriter.
Sarah McLeod was an inspired choice of opener. She’s such a warm, giving performer, with a killer voice that really shines in an acoustic setting. Her last album Rocky’s Diner was one of her finest in my opinion, a masterclass in songwriting with stripped back tracks telling some incredible stories. Songs from that release were showcased along with some surprising covers like “House of the Rising Sun” and a clever mash-up of Mahalia Jackson’s “Lord Don’t Move That Mountain,” George Gershwin’s “Summertime,” and Leadbelly’s “Where Did You Sleep Last Night?” Her version of Max Merritt and the Meteors’ “Slipping Away” had everyone singing along. By the time her set was done, my mum was singing her praises and declaring her one of the best new acts she’d seen. Something tells me she wasn’t the only one in that room “introduced” to her talents.
Firstly, I want to apologise for the quality of my John Waite photo, the best of a bad bunch. It seems my lesson on how to adjust the shutter speed on my camera came a day too late. After 40 years in the business though, I don’t think John would mind images being a little out of focus. He’s not aging badly, but like all of us the years are showing.
This was billed as an acoustic tour, but there were plenty of tracks delivered with a full band. The show started boldly with “Midnight Rendezvous,” from John’s time in The Babys, and “Change.” Two of my favourites, “Every Time I Think Of You” and “When I See You Smile,” came next, making me think John had better pace himself. You don’t want to show all your cards straight up!
I think they got the balance right, although the stripped back numbers were my favourites. They let me hear the lyrics of songs I wasn’t so familiar with, like “Bluebird Café” and “Downtown,” so clearly and give me a greater appreciation of his talents. They also gave John the opportunity to talk to the crowd about his life and experiences. After 40 years in the industry, there are some stories to tell. He also got the chance to tell us what this tour means to him and how much fun he’s having in this country.
I needn’t have worried about John running out of steam, because the back end of the show had us in raptures. “Missing You,” one of my favourite songs of all time,” was utter perfection. A cover of “All Along the Watchtower” let John’s band shine. “Isn’t It Time?” gave John the opportunity to bring back Sarah. Needless to say, we didn’t miss The Babettes who lent their vocals to the original recording. The set left no stone unturned, so I was sure there’s be no encore. Then nervous when I heard the opening strains of “Whole Lotta Love.” John’s voice had been superb all night, but surely he was nuts to take on Robert Plant! He proved me wrong, rocking just as hard with one of the greatest vocal performances I think I’ll ever witness.
It’s always a concern when someone tours here so long after their heyday that they will be past their prime. But age hasn’t wearied John Waite. His voice is so strong and his songs incredible. I went in only knowing a handful but left the venue determined to track down more. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a casual listener like me, the Wooden Heart tour is not to be missed. Tickets are still available for all remaining dates.
3 April 2018 – Astor Theatre, Perth
5 April 2018 – The Gov, Adelaide
6 April 2018 – Evan Theatre, Penrith
Image source: Stephen Katulka
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