There’s no bigger story in Australian music this weekend than our contribution to the global Live Earth event. More than 45,000 packed into Sydney’s Aussie Stadium yesterday to hear the message of environmental awareness.
If you believe the reports, many disgruntled punters left after just two hours, frustrated by lengthy bar and toilet queues and poor acoustics. But for those who bravely soldiered on, the event was an unforgettable showcase of what this country has to offer.
While most Live Earth concerts relied on international drawcards, the Australian show celebrated homegrown talent. American Jack Johnson was the only foreign inclusion on the star-studded lineup.
The event kicked off with an Aboriginal welcome ceremony, before roots outfit Blue King Brown hit the stage. Then Toni Colette brought a touch of Hollywood glamour to the show with her band The Finish.
Paul Kelly’s classic “From Little Things Big Things Grow” resonated with the environmentally conscious crowd. He was joined by Kev Carmody, John Butler and Missy Higgins for the magical performance.
Later, John Butler delivered a lively set, while Missy’s romantic wailings seemed a little out of step with the event.
In a concert dominated by mellow, down-tempo bands, Wolfmother’s racous energy was a welcome relief. Jack Johnson followed them, a poor choice considering his low-key set.
Crowded House were the ideal closers, delivering a feel-good set of sing-a-long classics. Tens of thousands of fans nearly drowned out Neil Finn as they joined him on the closing song, “Weather With You”. Whether Live Earth worked as an environmental awareness campaign remains to be seen, but as a musical event it will be hard to top.
Image source: Wikimedia
