Tag: Sydney

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Prince @ State Theatre, Sydney – 21 February 2016

I feel like I’ve been floating on a bit of a cloud since Sunday night. Not even a workload so heavy that I haven’t been able to write up a review until now has been able to penetrate my post-concert haze. That is the feeling you get when you leave one of the very best concerts you’ve ever seen. That’s how I feel after witnessing the first State Theatre show of Prince’s Piano and a Microphone tour.

In true rock star style, Prince had us waiting half an hour after the time the show was scheduled to start before gracing us with his presence. Despite sitting alone, a result of the very strict two-limit ticket that forced my party of three to split up, I didn’t feel lonely. I was surrounded by amazing people whose enthusiasm for the Purple One matched my own. As we recounted tales of tours past and watched the officious security guards enforcing the “no photos” rule, the time flew. Certainly all was forgiven by the time the words, “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate this thing we call life” echoed from the speakers. Prince stood dramatically in silhouette at the back of the stage, pausing for applause before taking his place at the piano and launching into “Let’s Go Crazy,” a rollicking good time which set the tone for the evening.

This was exactly the intimate show I was hoping for. With just his voice, a kaleidoscopic projection screen, and a piano with synchronised synth strings triggered by the keys to give some songs a little more depth, Prince put on a show that reinforced what a special artist he is. The set list spanned the breadth of his discography, from early 80s songs like “Controversy” to “RockNRoll LoveAffair” and “Black Muse,” two songs from his new album HitNRun Phase Two. Covers of “Stand!” from Sly and the Family Stone and “A Case of You” from Joni Mitchell paid tribute to his influences.

Prince has always been an enigmatic figure, but I felt the walls came down on this tour. His version of “Love Thy Will Be Done,” which he wrote for Martika, was truly breathtaking. “I Love U In Me” was just as sexy as we all hoped it would be. We squealed with delight as Prince invited a dancing female fan up on stage to groove by his piano during “Raspberry Beret.” He again called for dancing reinforcements during “Kiss,” when he spotted a young boy boogying with some of the fastest feet I’ve ever seen. I was sure he might trip over as he danced frenetically to the obvious amusement of the Purple One. He invited us to sing the backup parts for “Cream,” and admonished us playfully when we would sing off key or encroach on his parts, insisting we’d need to start that bit again.

After seeing Prince perform with a full band in 2012, it was so exciting to see him bring a different complexion to these songs. There was a wistfulness about “I Could Never Take the Place Of Your Man” that I’d never heard before. “How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore” had a soul that had me stamping my feet in appreciation. I’ve always considering Prince one of the most underappreciated guitarists of our time, but he’s also breathtaking on the piano. I marvelled as “The Question of U” morphed into Beethoven’s “Fur Elise.” On his third and final encore, Prince treated us to “Purple Rain,” the perfect song to close out an incredible night.

I have never spent $400 on a concert ticket before and I listened to plenty of people who said I was mad to do it this time. But this show was worth every single cent. I expected something magical for the price, and Prince delivered in spades. I feel so blessed to have been in the audience of this very special show, one of the very best I have ever seen and am likely to see.

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Peter Cetera @ State Theatre, Sydney – 11 December 2015

It’s a big call to name someone “the voice of a generation.” It’s the sort of thing you typically read on marketing posters, knowing it’s about selling tickets more than the truth. But if there is an artist that’s earned that mantle, I think it’s Peter Cetera. My dad, the source of almost all of my early music knowledge, didn’t own one of his albums, yet the distinctive sound of his voice is one that’s synonymous with my childhood. I was reminded of that as the Sydney Symphony Orchestra took the seated crowd at the State Theatre on Friday night through a medley of his hits before the man himself came out. Whether with Chicago or out on his own, Peter Cetera truly was a musical force in the ‘80s. He still occupies a very special place in my heart today.

When Peter stepped out, my excitement was at fever pitch, even though I didn’t know the song “Restless Heart” that he started with. It gave me a little time to calm down before he brought out the big gun, “Glory of Love.” I could scarcely believe three songs in I was going to hear that song, the song that my husband and I danced our “first dance” to at our wedding, but there it was. When your discography is as loaded as Peter Cetera’s, you don’t need to wait for an encore to play the hits. And they kept on coming, all with the expert backing of the Sydney Symphony making these special songs even richer.

It’d be remiss of me to suggest this was the perfect concert. At 71 years of age, Peter’s voice is starting to show some limitations. He can still hit the high notes he’s famous for, but he can’t sustain them as he once could. When he’s in his comfort zone, he sounds just as good as he ever did though. He also cleverly surrounds himself with talented young musicians who can now do what he once did. Whether he’s singing a duet like “After All” with his gorgeous young backup singer Tania Hancheroff or sharing vocals on a song like “Hard Habit to Break” with his guitarist Chris Rodriguez, he knows when he needs reinforcements to make the songs sound as they should.

Peter Cetera’s passion also impressed me. He’s probably sung these songs more times than he can remember, yet he seems to genuinely enjoy sharing them with an audience. He sang with such enthusiasm, truly giving us everything he had. He also took the time to share fascinating facts about the songs and himself with us. Did you know “Glory of Love” was originally written for Rocky 4? Or that he wrote “You’re the Inspiration” for Kenny Rogers, who lost a serious hit when he passed on the track? Neither did I, and as a music trivia buff I loved discovering this stuff.

With a back catalogue as rich as Peter Cetera’s, it may seem impossible to hear every song you want, but I did. Even songs that I hadn’t remembered he did, like “After All” with Cher, and “No Explanation” from Pretty Woman. As he took his final bow after two encores, I clapped until my hands were sore.

Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Joshua Radin @ Metro Theatre, Sydney – 10 September 2015

Last Thursday I went to those concerts that put me on a real high. I’ll be honest with you and admit that I’m still on that high so many days later. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to write about this evening impartially, but I might just have calmed down enough to come off as more of a music blogger and less of a teenage girl. I might be in my mid-thirties, but that part of me is always going to come out when I see Joshua Radin, especially when I do it VIP.

When Joshua announced he would offer VIP tickets for his latest Australian tour, the first in more than four years, I jumped at them. I couldn’t wait to meet this singer-songwriter that I’ve admired for his entire career, but I wasn’t quite prepared for how special the experience would be. Around 30 die-hard fans were ushered into the Metro at a little after five to see Joshua standing on stage, playing one of my favourite songs “Closer,” from the first album. Joshua told us that he wanted to treat us to stuff we wouldn’t hear at the main show, which I really appreciated. The six-song soundcheck was more than generous. “Vegetable Car,” my husband’s favourite song which Joshua pulled out on the request of another fan despite being unsure whether he could remember the lyrics, was another highlight. It was also thrilling to hear a couple of brand new, unrecorded songs. I didn’t take any photos; it was one of those times where you just want to soak things in and have them just for you.

We were told we could get three pieces of merchandise signed, which equated to six for me because I brought my husband along. However, Joshua was actually happy to sign whatever we had, so those posters we were handed as we walked in also earned his signature. He took his time chatting to everyone individually, really paying attention to what we were saying and engaging us all. We never felt rushed, and we all felt special. I was so glad to be able to tell him what his album Wax Wings meant to me, and tickled pink when he complimented me on my skirt.

After the meet and greet we were shown a special VIP section of the Metro where we could sit for the evening. The plush seats and excellent view from those seats added further value to those VIP tickets, as did the company. I swear I’ve never been to a show with such wonderful people. We chatted with such interesting folks, not just about Joshua about our careers and families and other music we loved. They definitely made the time between acts feel much shorter.

Tara Favell was the first of those acts, a sweet young country-pop singer with a sparkly guitar. Her original songs reminded me a little of early Taylor Swift, and I felt for her when I spotted people near the front playing on their phones. Note to music lovers: if you want to stand near a stage, maybe give the artists the respect to at least appear to be paying attention. Her cover versions of “Thinking About Loud” and “I’m Yours” engaged the crowd a little more, but sadly their minds seemed to be elsewhere.

David Lazarus had an easier time of things. Frankly he was a gorgeous man, and that always helps at a show when most of the crowd are female. But his stories about the love he has for his sisters had every girl in the place swooning. He had a great rich tone, and serious guitar chops. His closing medley of popular songs old and new had everyone cheering. I became an instant fan, and plan on checking out more of his music.

But Joshua Radin was the man we all came to see. Despite being here to promote his album Onward and Sideways, his set took on a journey through his entire catalogue. In fact if anything it was heaviest on his debut album, after fans at the soundcheck told him they’d love to hear the early material. I sat in raptures, hanging onto his every word as he explained the circumstances behind the songs and listening to them with new understanding. After a backing band that felt too big for his songs last tour, it was refreshing to see him playing with just two other musicians. They gave the music the right amount of intimacy. My favourite Joshua Radin song “You’ve Got Growing Up To Do” was a real highlight, but “Winter,” “Only You,” and the jubilant” Belong” was also really special. Hell, the whole concert was special. His cover of “Don’t Think Twice It’s Alright,” the first song he learned to play on a guitar, capped things off beautifully.

I left the Metro bouncing off the walls and I still feel those same butterflies as I write about that night. Joshua assured us he’ll return sooner next time, and I can only hope he keeps his word. Because personally, I’m ready to see the show again.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jack Carty & Jordan Millar @ Venue 505, Sydney – 8 August 2015

The closure of Lizotte’s at Kincumber hit me hard. That venue spoiled me, got me used to seeing intimate shows and enjoying great food and wines while artists played. So I was thrilled to discover a similar vibe at Venue 505 in Surry Hills on Saturday night.

It wasn’t quite up to the standard of my beloved Lizotte’s, but this small room with comfy couches and tables for dining has real promise. It’s more about bar food than three-course menus, and my steak was rarer than I asked for. But the wine list was inspired and reasonably priced, especially by Sydney standards. You can’t book tables either, although arriving at 6 when doors opened there was no chance of missing out on a great spot.

As I get older it takes something special to lure me into the city. But I couldn’t resist the promise of Jack Carty and Jordan Millar playing “intimate and by request.” Jordan Millar’s album Cold Lights on Curious Minds was one of my favourite albums of 2013, and I loved Jack Carty’s set warming up for Josh Pyke last year. Having said that, I wouldn’t consider myself particularly familiar with their music. I’ve loved what I heard, but I certainly wasn’t hankering to hear particular tunes like the folks eager to write their favourite songs down and put them in the request box by the stage.

The thing is though, at a gig like this you don’t need to know the songs. It’s not like going to see some band they play on classic rock stations where everyone sings along. Especially in an intimate setting like Venue 505, these songs should be listened to, their lyrics heard. Jordan Miller was up first. I haven’t listened to his album in a while, but his set was a powerful reminder that I need to dig it out. There were a few songs I remembered from that recording, like “Rain on the Ground” and some new favourites to discover like “Advice from Beyonce.”

All of the Jack Carty songs I heard were new to me, but that was exciting. Really a show like this is the perfect introduction to musicians, because you’re going to hear a set that’s made up of the songs that fans love. I adored the solo sets both artists delivered, but true magic was made when Jordan joined Jack for the final tracks of the night. How wonderful to experience two such talented singer-songwriters, stripped back with just acoustic guitars, singing such beautiful songs.

And how wonderful to do it at such a great venue. It takes a lot to lure me to Sydney these days, but this show was well worth braving the cold of winter.

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Budget-Saving Tips for a Musical Holiday in Sydney

If an international artist will play anywhere in Australia, it’s Sydney. While most will make it to Melbourne and Brisbane, it’s becoming increasingly common for musicians to announce a single Sydney date on a promo tour before jetting off to the next international locale. Consequently more out-of-towners are making the long-haul trek to Sydney to see their favourite bands and singers.

Sydney’s an exciting place to see live music, but with the highest cost of living in the country a musical holiday to the New South Wales capital can also be expensive. Living on the Central Coast, I regularly make the trip, so I wanted to share my budget-saving tips with you all.

Book Your Accommodation Early

You might be tempted to wait for a last-minute deal, but on big concert nights the earlier you book, the better. You’re competing for Sydney hotel rooms with music lovers from other states and across New South Wales, along with regular holidaymakers and businesspeople, so it’s easy to see why the best rooms fill quickly. I’ve noticed prices jump by $100 to $200 as concert dates near, so dilly-dallying doesn’t pay.

Don’t be Afraid to Compromise

Photo by Miller Wu via Trover.com

You might have your heart set on the Novotel Rockford right next to Qantas Credit Union Arena, but it’s not your only option. The light rail’s Paddy’s Market stop is right outside the venue, so you could easily book a hotel near any of its other stops. It also runs from Central Station, so you could also catch a train to Central from any other local station. This opens up more accommodation options which may be cheaper, especially closer to your show.

Hostels like Cambridge Lodge are also basic but clean, and they’ll do the job if you simply need a place to crash post-gig. If you don’t need frills, why pay for them?

Save on Pre-Gig Nosh

If you’re looking for a special meal before a show, by all means splash out on dinner at ARIA or Quay. But if you’d rather save your cash for merch, read on.

Circular Quay has some of the most expensive restaurants in the city, but it’s not the only option when you’re heading to the Opera House. If you aren’t fussed about the waterfront views, head to the Rocks. There are some great cafes and pubs serving up yummy meals for far less.

Darling Harbour is a popular choice for people heading to Qantas Credit Union Arena, but the meals are overpriced for what you get. You needn’t resort to the Macca’s next door though. Instead head a block back to Chinatown for affordable, authentic Asian cuisine.

Options are a little limited around Allphones Arena, but you needn’t resort to Olympic Park’s overpriced pub fare or even more expensive fast food inside the venue. I find the market stalls and food trucks that pop up around concerts the best bet. The gozleme van is my personal pick.

This post was written as part of the #HipmunkCityLove project. What ways do you love saving money when seeing shows in Sydney?

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Rare Finds and Mountain Goat Beer Launch Free Indie Shows in Sydney

Sydney PR company Rare Finds and Mountain Goat Beer are encouraging more music lovers to discover new bands with the launch of their free-entry indie club nights. On the last Friday of every month an exciting line-up of emerging artists will take the stage at Enmore’s Sly Fox from 8 pm.

It all kicks off this Friday, April 24, with Jenny Broke the Window, Food Court, Hedge Fund, and Winston Surfshirt. With no cover charge and a full weekend to follow for recovery, there’s no excuse for staying home!

Image source: Newtown Graffiti @ Flickr

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Eagles @ Qantas Credit Union Arena, Sydney – 2 March 2015

As The Eagles get ready to kick off their New Zealand shows, I figured it was high time that I found a moment to look back at their Sydney gig last Monday. Before I started to write I thought I should look back on the review I wrote of their 2010 gig. I remarked on some of the same things I found myself marvelling at four years later: the effortless harmonies, the timeless quality of the songs, and the way that age has not wearied these talented musicians.

You might expect that without a new studio album release since 2007, the show would be pretty much the same as it was years ago. However, the History of the Eagles moniker gave it a new complexion which I really loved. I’ve always believed that the real beauty of a live show is the opportunity to learn more about the songs and to hear the stories of the artist. If I just wanted to hear the songs, I’d stay home and listen to a CD. While some hecklers didn’t seem to warm to The Eagles’ ruminations, I lapped up every minute of the coolest history lesson of my life. The show started out with just Glenn Frey and Don Henley, the way the band began, playing “Saturday Night” on acoustic guitars. This was just one of the lesser known tracks that made sense in this concert format.

Before long Glenn and Don were joined by founding member Bernie Leadon (who wasn’t present last tour), Timothy B. Schmidt, and Joe Walsh. The simple acoustic numbers gradually gave way to stirring electric full band performances, and songs from the vault gave way to radio staples. I was raised on The Eagles, so I knew most of the songs and was thrilled to hear the ones I never expected. “Doolin’-Dalton” and the reprise of “Desperado” were great surprises, although that’s to take nothing away from the songs I’d suspected would make the list. The Eagles have so many songs that you can never take anything for granted after all. “Already Gone” had me punching my fists in the air, Timothy B. Schmidt’s vocals in “I Can’t Tell You Why” blew me away all over again, and “Life in the Fast Lane” really rocked.

I did miss the solo Henley and Frey songs we were treated to last time, but when a band of 60-year-olds play until 11:30 it’s hard to be too critical. The decision to keep Joe Walsh’s solo shining moment, “Rocky Mountain Way,” in the second encore was enough to make amends. I couldn’t help but rise to my feet in appreciation when they closed with “Desperado.”

I loved the Eagles last time, but in sharing their history the Eagles created a show that was even more appealing this time around. I have no idea how long guys in their mid-60s can keep on doing this, but I’ll keep on fronting up so long as they do!

Image source: Wikimedia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

5 Best Places to see Live Music in Sydney, NSW

The Entertainment Centre and Allphones Arena might get the lion’s share of the big-name acts, but there are plenty of better places to see bands in Sydney. Read on to discover five of the best.

1. Sydney Opera House

Image via Flickr by cogdogblog

There’s a reason why international artists revere the Sydney Opera House. Its Concert Hall was purpose-built to offer some of the best acoustics around. Of course it hosts symphonies and operas, but in recent years it’s also played host to an eclectic mix of big-name acts like Tori Amos, Ben Folds, Michael Buble, and Jason Mraz. Seeing a show there always feels extra special.

2. State Theatre

Image via Flickr by Eva Rinaldi Celebrity and Live Music Photographer

I get chills whenever I hear that one of my favourite musicians is performing at the State Theatre. This beautiful heritage-listed building feels a lot like the Civic in my old stomping ground of Newcastle, with its dramatic staircases and eclectic mix of Gothic, Italian, and Art Deco design features. The sound is always exquisite, and it’s so intimate that there really are no bad seats. David Byrne, Human Nature, Cyndi Lauper, and Dave Matthews Band are some of the amazing artists I’ve seen here over the years.

3. Enmore Theatre

Image via Flickr by Eva Rinaldi Celebrity and Live Music Photographer

The Enmore’s another intimate venue that has a real charm. It’s a long way from the beauty of the State; there are no frills about it at all. But you’ve got to have respect for a venue that’s still going strong 106 years after it opened its doors. That makes it the longest-running, currently operational live music venue in the state. The Rolling Stones, Counting Crows, Coldplay, and John Mayer are just a handful of the artists who’ve played in this hallowed hall.

4. The Annandale Hotel

Image via Flickr by Newtown Graffiti

Of course it can’t all be about posh venues with plush seating though. If you want to see a band before they break you need to brave the sticky floors of Sydney’s pubs and clubs. Some of my fondest early music memories centred around the Annandale. I remember catching artists like Howie Day and Thirsty Merc here for next to nothing back in the day. I haven’t been for years, but a quick look at its website shows me the Annandale’s still showcasing the best up and comers.

5. The Standard Bowl

I was so impressed with The Standard when I visited a few years ago, even if I did feel far too old for its hipster crowd. If, like me, you’re too old to stand around all night waiting for the bands to appear, arrive early and sneak up to the top level where you can enjoy a few bevvies while you survey the action below. I loved the bird’s eye view I got upstairs, but there’s also plenty of space on the lower level for punters wanting to get a little closer to the action. And it just got even cooler this year with the addition of a bowling alley!

Where do you like to see live music in Sydney? Add your views to the discussion below!

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Queen & Adam Lambert @ AllPhones Arena, Sydney – 26 August 2014

The chatter about Queen and Adam Lambert’s Australian tour started before tickets even went on sale. People were concerned about the former American Idol contestant being unable to step into the legendary Freddie Mercury’s shoes. Some unkind folks even suggested that it was shameless attempt to cash in on his legacy. I remember reading an interview with Adam at the time, and his words stuck with me. He said “If there’s somebody out there that feels really strongly that this isn’t the same Queen then don’t come. But if you don’t come you’re going to miss one hell of a show.”

The folks who filled up AllPhones Arena were certainly ready for the show. There was a buzz in the air, an enthusiasm that doesn’t often come when a band is missing a force like Freddie. But the thing is, while Freddie wasn’t there, Adam Lambert was, and he is exceptional.

That’s something I’ve always known. While I enjoyed his electro-pop singles, he first caught my eye on American Idol, where he showed a real depth and intensity, and a mean set of pipes. They were on full display at this show. Freddie had one of the best voices in the biz, and while Adam’s isn’t quite as rich he certainly hit all the right notes. That is an achievement in itself. His charisma really struck me though. If he felt daunted stepping into Freddie’s shoes, he didn’t show it. He didn’t try to be Freddie, but instead seemed confident in his own ability to entertain a crowd. He was sexy, naughty, and captivating. I was entranced.

Fittingly, Freddie was still a force at this show. It always felt a little off to me when I saw INXS perform over the years and they didn’t mention Michael Hutchence. But Freddie’s spirit was a key part of this concert. A tear came to my eye when he joined Brian May, thanks to the magic of video, in an exquisite stripped back version of “Love of My Life.” He was back again for “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which was always going to be a tough ask without the benefits of studio wizardry. Interlaying live vocals with archived video was so smart.

Not that the concert was perfect. I could have done without some of the more obscure numbers like “Dragon Attack” and “Tie Your Mother Down,” and when the guitars amped up the sound got a bit fuzzy. I wonder whether it might have been crisper if we weren’t in the nosebleed seats, but other rock greater like Roger Waters manage to get the sound right throughout this expansive venue.

Yet even with the flaws, a night with Queen is a whole lot of fun. I was hypnotised by Adam’s performance of “Who Wants to Live Forever.” I wondered how they might pull off one of my favourites, “Under Pressure,” without Freddie or Bowie, but Roger Taylor made an admirable stand-in. Joining the crowd in those iconic handclaps that anchor “Radio Gaga” was so much fun.

For what it’s worth, I never had any doubt that this show was going to be worthwhile. I’ve been an Adam Lambert fan from the get go, and Roger Taylor and Brian May are such stellar musicians. Anyone who boldly declares that Queen was simply a Freddie showcase is missing the point. His death leaves a gaping hole in the band, it’s true, but I feel so glad that the remaining members decided to regroup and continue to share their music with us. To have these songs die along with Freddie, to miss out on that live experience, would have been a great shame.

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

John Mayer @ Allphones Arena, Sydney – 24 April 2014

Until I was standing with the crowd at Allphones Arena last week, I don’t think I realised how much I’d missed John Mayer. He’s released a couple of incredible albums since he last visited his shores, and they tided me over until his next appearance. But being there, soaking up his every chord, stamping my feet as the music coursed through me, it occurred to me just how much I’ve missed him. Looking over at my friend Lisa, who’s travelled from Brisbane for the gig, I could tell she felt the same way.

Watching him up on stage, it seemed that he missed us too. Most artists that don’t visit Australia curse the journey and feel it’s much easier to stay away. Not John though. Problems with his vocal chords robbed him of his voice and left him no option but to stay at home and recover. It could have easily spelled the end of his musical career, but instead it helped him create the beautiful introspective Born and Raised and Paradise Valley. So he recuperated, and we waited, and he came back to us stronger than ever.

He thanked the enthusiastic crowd so sincerely, but we were the ones that should have been thanking him. It’s rare to see an artist playing with so much joy. Clearly he was craving that time on the stage. It was such a gift to witness this man with such enthusiasm for his craft. Casual fans might have lamented the omission of a few singles (“Daughters” and “Bigger Than My Body” spring to mind), but I think he did his best to appease those folks with “No Such Thing,” Your Body is a Wonderland” (a song that rarely makes the set), and “Waiting on the World to Change.”

He might have enjoyed success on the pop charts, but I don’t see John as a singles guy. He was most at his element on songs which allowed him to stretch out a little more, to play with the arrangement and flex his enviable guitar skills. The free-form nature of songs like “Edge of Desire,” “I Don’t Trust Myself (With Loving You)” and the final song of the night, “Gravity,” really allow his talents to shine. His surprising, tender cover of Beyonce’s “XO” further highlighted his skills, and the inclusion of my favourite song from Born and Raised, “Walt Grace’s Submarine Test, January 1967” had me in raptures. The internet tells me he’d played it just seven times before, so seeing John performing it so simply with a steel guitar in Sydney was just heaven.

It had been far too long since my last John Mayer concert, but it was well and truly worth the wait. He’s in such fine form right now, I can only hope he doesn’t leave us hanging too long before announcing a return visit.

Image source: Stephen Katulka