Category: Concert Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

LANY @ Oxford Art Factory, Eora/Sydney – 6 August 2023

We’ve all got those bands we wish we knew when they were playing tiny venues. We rarely get the chance for a do-over, but LANY treated Aussie fans to just that when they decided to return to the very first venues they played in this country last weekend. The shows were announced less than a week before they happened and LANY fans were quick to jump on the very limited tickets. I couldn’t quite believe I scored two, especially when I read that they sold out in minutes.

The Oxford Art Factory has a listed capacity of 500, but I’m not sure it held even that. It certainly felt very intimate as we shuffled into this warehouse-style room for the show. There was such a buzz in the air, like we all knew how special this was going to be. And special it was. A short, stripped-back set that celebrated the new material while paying homage to their back catalogue. The tracks from LANY’s upcoming album, i really really hope so, came out early. The beautiful thing about playing such a small gig before an album release is that the people that are there love you. They won’t criticise you like those Red Hot Chilli Peppers fans who wanted the old favourites. They’ll be thrilled to hear these songs live for the first time. And they’ll sing along to every damn word. Even to “XXL”, which dropped on Friday. The smile on lead singer Paul’s face as we joined him in those new lyrics was everything.

This was always advertised as a half-hour show, so I wondered what old favourites might make the cut. When you’re performing for such die-hard fans, you really get the opportunity to play anything that moves you after all. Fittingly for this venue, LANY took it right back, playing “pink skies” from the kinda EP and “Super Far,” “13”, and the predictable but perfect closer, “ILYSB”, from their self-titled debut album. I tried to hang onto every moment, but soon enough the fans down the front were throwing roses on the stage and Paul was assuring us they’d be back early next year. I can’t wait. Until then, I’ll hold my memories of this very special night in Eora/Sydney with LANY close to my heart.

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Dami Im @ Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, Darkinjung Country/Avoca Beach – 15 July 2023

It’s been three years since I saw Dami Im live. Back then she was just beginning to release some of the confessional music that turned me from a casual fan to a committed member of the “Dami Army.” I feel like her music has gone from strength to strength since that time, so I was thrilled to nab one of the best seats in the house for Saturday’s show at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre.

While The Art House is hardly a large venue, it doesn’t have the intimacy of the little community movie theatre that has become one of Darkinjung Country/Central Coast’s most beloved music venues seemingly overnight. The beautiful art deco cinema room (just the one, this is no multiplex) holds less than 300 people. While there’s a bar in the foyer, once people sit down they stay in their seats, listening to the music attentively and clapping respectfully. We’re even told that if we insist on taking photographs, to hold our cameras low to ensure we don’t annoy other patrons, and to be sporadic as a live event like this is much better experienced with our eyes rather than through the lens of a device. Normally I won’t take any photos, because my usual front row seats cast such a spell. But tickets sell so fast these days that I found myself a few rows back and able to catch a few.

A venue like this is perfect for an EP launch because people are there to appreciate music. They welcome new material and give everyone a chance to properly discover it in real-time. It’s a rare, special thing. Dami clearly relished the opportunity to introduce us to the songs from In Between, an EP written as she processed her emotions on falling pregnant and giving birth. They’re weighty songs, confessional songs which give real truths about this often-confusing time in a woman’s life. Honestly, I think they might be some of the best songs Dami’s ever written. Hearing her speak about that time that inspired this material has given me an even deeper appreciation of this recording.

While the night was a celebration of new material, Dami had time for old favourites. She belted out all her singles, relishing the opportunity to dance around and interact with her band. She even took us back to where it all began with a piano medley of songs that helped her clinch the X Factor crown. And of course she couldn’t leave us without delivering “Sounds of Silence,” the song that launched her into the global consciousness at Eurovision.

I loved Dami’s live show the first time around, but in this special intimate venue, excited to share new music that clearly means so much to her, she might have been even better.

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Billy Ocean @ Darling Harbour Theatre, Eora/Sydney – 22 June 2023

For years one of my friends has told me that I needed to see Billy Ocean. When he announced his greatest hits tour, in winter when few other artists tour no less, I knew I’d run out of excuses. Now that I’ve been to my first Billy Ocean concert, I wonder why it took me so long.

Boorloo/Perth neo-soul artist Drea warmed up the crowds with a beautiful set. What a stunning voice she has. I was mesmerised as she layered vocal loops for her opening track before her keyboardist Alfred joined her for her remaining numbers. My husband leaned over and whispered that they reminded him a little of a modern-day Toni Braxton and Babyface. It’s a brave thing to perform a set focused on originals at a show that relies so heavily on nostalgia, but Drea was so captivating that the crowd couldn’t help but pay her respect. You could have heard a pin drop throughout her performance. I made a mental note to follow her on the socials, as she encouraged, to see where she’s playing next.

It’s also a brave thing to announce a greatest hits tour, then open with a song from a new album, but after nearly 50 years in the business, he’s earned the right to do as he pleases. We weren’t left waiting too long for those hits though. When an artist can bring out a track like “Love Really Hurts Without You” as the second song, and back it up with “Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car” just a couple of numbers later, you know they’ve got some songs in their back catalogue. He played all our favourites eagerly, relishing the opportunity to hold the microphone out to better hear us singing his words back to him. His wide smile seemed a permanent fixture throughout the set. I’ve seen artists get a little jaded after decades in the business, admitting they’d rather skip certain singles, but Billy Ocean celebrates his repertoire with pure joy.

You sometimes wonder when seeing an artist of advancing years whether they may be past their prime. Billy Ocean isn’t ready to be put out to pasture anytime soon. While the voices of so many of his contemporaries show signs of age, his vocals are still strong and clear. He might be a little slower, but he still loves shaking his hips and grooving to the beat. I imagined my husband and I might be one of the younger ones in the audience since we were under 10 when he had some of his biggest hits, yet I saw so many people half our age out with their friends and partners having a ball. Even those of us of advancing years forgot how old we really were and joined them on our feet dancing to the closing songs “When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Gets Going” and “Caribbean Queen.”

My friend was right. I should have seen Billy Ocean years ago. Now I’ve discovered how good he is live, I can only hope that he’s got a few more tours left in him. If he hasn’t visited your city yet, go! Trust me! Tickets are still available for the following shows:

25 June 2023 – Royal Theatre, Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country/Canberra
27 June 2023 – Thebarton Theatre, Tartanya/Adelaide

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jane Barnes Band @ The Art House, Darkinjung Country/Wyong – 12 May 2023

Jimmy Barnes was the first performer I ever saw live. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve seen him since his Soul Deep tour in the early ‘90s, but it’s a lot. However, I’ve never seen a show quite like the one I watched on Friday night with the Jane Barnes Band.

Bek Jensen opened the show, as she did for close personal friend and Jane Barnes Band member Mahalia Barnes a couple of months ago. It was a shorter set this time and one that was over all too soon. She has such a beautiful, commanding voice and an incredible collection of song. Captivating an audience with originals as an emerging artist is no mean feat. She already had us mesmerised, but when Mahalia and the sublimely talented Karen Lee Andrews joined Bec near the end of the set we were in raptures. The combination of those three incredible voices in harmony was spectacular. Bec was also joined by her mum, Shauna Jensen, a legend in her own right. Watching them perform a song that they wrote together remotely during the pandemic lockdowns so close to Mother’s Day brought a little tear to my eye.

The Jane Barnes Band continued that celebration of family. Rest assured, this wasn’t a Jimmy Barnes show. All the members of the family took a turn at lead. Jane took some coaxing every time, but it was so sweet watching Jimmy’s encouragement. What a beautiful, supportive relationship they have. After watching Jackie take his turn at the mic, my mum whispered to me her surprise at the quality of his voice. Maybe we shouldn’t be so surprised given his genes, but I’d love to hear him sing a bit more. Mahalia is always flawless, and there’s a reason Jimmy is one of the most beloved singers in this country.

The thread of family ran through the songs that made up the setlist. Jimmy told us that Jane picked most of them, assuring us that he wouldn’t be singing songs by artists like The Carpenters otherwise. But that’s exactly what made this concert so fantastic. The song was peppered with a sprinkling of Jimmy’s hits. “Flesh and Blood” resonated just that little bit more after watching Jimmy with the people he loves most in this world. Watching Jimmy share lead vocals on “When Something is Wrong (With My Baby)” with Shauna Jensen, his former backing singer was so special. And I’ll never get tired of “Flame Trees.” But it was the songs I’ve never heard Jimmy tackle that really made this night so memorable. Tracks like “Bad Moon Rising,” “First Cut is the Deepest”, and “The Rose” (really!) were incredible. We even had a special guest bagpiper! Speaking of bagpipes, I had to take the tissues out again for “The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond,” which Jimmy dedicated to his dearly departed friend, Jock Zonfrillo. Just beautiful.

Wyong was the first stop for the Jane Barnes Band and it was one hell of a debut. They insist things will probably go more smoothly as the tour progresses, but I can’t imagine this family ironing out all of the rough edges. That’s a very good thing. These shows let you spend time with an Aussie icon and his loved ones. They’re unfiltered and a whole lot of fun, along with being immensely talented. Here are the remaining dates on this run, but don’t worry if your city isn’t included. The fam is already talking about travelling around the country if these shows go well. If Wyong is any indication, we won’t have to wait too long for a national run.

20 May 2023 – Milton Theatre, Murramarang Country/Milton
21 May 2023 – Milton Theatre, Murramarang Country/Milton
28 May 2023 – Bowral Bowling Club, Gundungurra Country/Bowral
29 May 2023 – Bowral Bowling Club, Gundungurra Country/Bowral
1 June 2023 – Lizotte’s, Mulubinba/Lambton
2 June 2023 – Lizotte’s, Mulubinba/Lambton
10 June 2023 – Tallagandra Hill Winery, Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri Country/Gundaroo
11 June 2023 – Tallagandra Hill Winery, Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri Country/Gundaroo
18 June 2023 – Joan Theatre, Darug Country/Penrith

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Carly Rae Jepsen @ Enmore Theatre, Eora/Newtown – 7 March 2023

In 2007, my husband and I started downloading episodes of Canadian Idol to fill the gap between Australian seasons. From the moment we saw Carly Rae Jepsen audition with her original song “Sweet Talker” (such a gutsy move back then!) we knew she was special. She finished in third place, but we never forgot her. Fast forward to 2011 and the release of “Call Me Maybe.” Suddenly she was the name on everyone’s lips, although later singles never broke through the way that monster track did. That’s a good thing for fans like me because it means we can see her in an intimate venue like the Enmore, where everyone is so passionate about this music.

At a stadium gig, there’s an expectation that bands will play the greatest hits. Red Hot Chilli Peppers were criticised for playing seven songs from their two 2022 albums in Eora/Sydney. Carly Rae played nine songs from her 2022 album The Loneliest Time. She even had the “audacity” to open with two of those new tracks. But the audience was singing right along with her, relishing in the opportunity to experience these songs live for the first time. I was one of them. That album is absolute fire.

While the incredible songs from The Loneliest Time took centre stage, I don’t think anyone walked away disappointed. I had a massive wish list in my head, and Carly Rae delivered just about every track on it. Songs like “Cut to the Feeling”, “Julien”, and “Your Type” didn’t crack the top 100, but listening to the enthusiastic reception they got you’d be forgiven for thinking they were every bit as big as “Call Me Maybe.” The energy of this crowd was incredible, and Carly Rae seemed to lap it up, grinning widely as she jumped around the stage, stopping to touch the hands of lucky fans in the first few rows. From my spot in the dress circle, I watched the crowd move as one, jumping around to the upbeat pop numbers. I almost wished I was down with them instead of dancing in my seat.

As Carly Rae left for an encore, I mentally checked my wish list and started to worry I’d miss out on a few songs, especially the beautiful “Go Find Yourself or Whatever.” I wasn’t sure this soft ballad would find a place in the party, but I needn’t have worried. First song of the encore, just as perfect as I imagined it might be. “Beach House” wasn’t on that wish list, but it probably should have been. Another new track, with some of the best lyrics exploring disaster dates that you’ll ever hear, it really brought back the energy in the room. Carly Rae closed out with “Cut to the Feeling,” another song on that long wish list that sent us home with the very best of vibes.

As I floated back to the train station, buzzing with adrenaline, I marvelled at how far Carly Rae had come. She always had something special as she strummed her guitar and delivered that original song in her Canadian Idol audition. She’s continued writing incredible songs, but she commands a stage now. She could do it in arenas and she deserves to have the fan base that sees her booking larger venues. But I feel so lucky to be able to see her in a much smaller space, at the peak of her powers. I’m sure getting just six hours of sleep will catch up with me at some point, but right now I’m still buzzing. Carly Rae Jepsen continues her So Nice tour with the following Aussie shows:

8 March 2023 – Enmore Theatre, Eora/Sydney
9 March 2023 – The Tivoli, Meeanjin/Brisbane
11-13 March 2023 – Golden Plains, Wadawarrung Country/Meredith
13 March 2023 – The Forum, Naarm/Melbourne
14 March 2023 – The Forum, Naarm/Melbourne

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Katie Noonan @ Avoca Beach Cinema, Darkinjung Country/Avoca Beach – 4 March 2023

If you hadn’t noticed, I’ve been busy. Really busy. After so many slow years, it seems like just about everyone is touring. And like any music addict, I’m powerless to say no. So even though I already had tickets to a matinee performance of “Come From Away” on Saturday, I found myself driving back to Darkinjung Country/Central Coast to catch Katie Noonan’s tribute to Joni Mitchell’s seminal album Blue.

I’d heard how good Melody Pool was from a friend who sees her perform regularly, but I’m not sure his praise really prepared me for her set. What a phenomenal vocalist she is. What a warm and engaging performer. She admitted that her songs tend to be a little dark, as they are often her way of processing her emotions during depressive episodes, but her beautiful voice lifts you up, ensuring the dark lyrics don’t get too heavy. To hold the audience in the palm of her hand with so many new songs is a real gift. I’d see her again in a heartbeat.

Every time I see Katie Noonan I see something new. It’s so exciting to watch her journey as an artist. When I saw her front George I was in my early 20s. A few years back I saw her making jazz-folk with Elixir. And on the weekend, she was celebrating one of the true legends of the music world, Joni Mitchell. It was something new again, but perhaps my favourite.

Firstly, there’s that music. Joni has a special place in my heart, and many of my favourites come from Blue. This album is like an old friend, and taking a journey through it with Katie and this attentive audience was a real joy. The audience is another tick. Katie said we could sing along, but I don’t think any of us wanted to break the spell Katie and her guitarist Jeremy Sawkins cast. You could hear a pin drop. Combine that with the intimate venue, a beautiful cinema with plush seating and such “good juju,” as Katie put it. But it all wouldn’t have mattered if not for Katie. I can’t imagine any other artists doing this music justice. Her voice is timeless and so special, able to swoop up high to Joni’s falsetto notes and wind around the intricate melodies with ease. She also understands these songs. She’s not just singing pretty words, she’s interpreting them. She chats easily with the crowd, sharing stories of Joni’s experiences at the time of writing and her own relationship with this music. If every person didn’t leave those theatre having learned something, I’d be surprised.

I appreciated that Katie played the album from start to finish. I’ve always believed artists have intent when they put an album together. It’s just as it should be. I also felt so treated that she didn’t quite stop there. “Big Yellow Taxi” gave us all the push we needed to sing, but not before Katie “auditioned” us and confirmed we were up to the task. After the singalong, it was so nice to take one last moment to appreciate Katie’s voice as she closed the show with “The Circle Game.”

As I stepped out of the theatre, I was so glad that I pushed myself to come, despite the fatigue that was starting to set in after so many shows. It was a truly special evening of music. If you’re a Katie fan or a Joni fan, make sure you don’t miss this tour. Here are all the remaining dates:

14 April 2023 – Blue Mountains Theatre and Community Hub, Dharug Country/Springwood
15 April 2023 – The Street Theatre, Ngunnawal Country/Canberra
16 April 2023 – Goulburn Performing Arts Centre, Burbong/Goulburn
10 May 2023 – Burrinja, Naarm/Melbourne
11 May 2023 – The Pig & Whistle, Bunurong Country/Main Ridge
12 May 2023 – The Thornbury Theatre, Naarm/Melbourne
13 May 2023 – Palais-Hepburn, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Hepburn Springs
14 May 2023 – Governor Hindmarsh, Tartanya/Adelaide
18 May 2023 – Glasshouse Port Macquarie, Birpai Country/Port Macquarie
20 May 2023 – Brunswick Picture House, Bundjalung Country/Brunswick Heads
26 May 2023 – Freo.Social, Boorloo/Perth
27 May 2023 – Lyric’s Underground, Boorloo/Perth
1 June 2023 – Bendooley Estate Winery, Gundungurra Country/Berrima
2 June 2023 – Brighton Lakes Recreation & Golf Club, Eora/Sydney
3 June 2023 – Glen Street Theatre, Eora/Sydney
4 June 2023 – Qirkz in the Hunter, Wonnarua Country/Abermain
9 June 2023 – The Events Centre, Gubbi Gubbi Jinibara Country/Caloundra
10 June 2023 – The J, Gubbi Gubbi Country/Noosa
11 June 2023 – Redland Performing Arts Centre, Meeanjin/Brisbane
15 June 2023 – Brisbane Powerhouse, Meeanjin/Brisbane
17 June 2023 – Tanks Arts Centre, Gimuy Country/Cairns

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute; credit: Wilk

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Come From Away @ Civic Theatre, Mulubinba/Newcastle – 4 March 2023

My husband and I watched the pro-shot of Come From Away when it dropped on Apple+ in September 2021, 20 years since terrorists drove their planes into the Twin Towers and other aeroplanes en route to the United States were diverted to the small Newfoundland town of Gander. We instantly fell in love with this musical that managed to somehow find the balance between comedy and tragedy. It was so truly heartwarming that when it travelled to Mulubinba/Newcastle, we couldn’t wait to introduce my mother to it.

I must admit, I had my reservations though. The Apple+ pro-shot featured the original Broadway cast. Jenn Colella won Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle awards for her role, and arguably should have taken home the Tony. Could this Aussie cast possibly measure up? How could they convincingly bring us this American story that still resonates so deeply with the people of that country? As with Hamilton, I needn’t have worried. There was not one person in this production that wasn’t at the very least the equal of the Broadway cast. From the soul-stirring opening “Welcome to The Rock,” I found myself swept away again.

In fact, I think this time I was even more invested. While I knew the outcome, I found myself wiping away tears at a poignant moment that hadn’t made me weepy the first time around. While pro-shots are fabulous at drawing your attention to small details, seeing the show from the dress circle I could take it all in.

If like me, you’ve enjoyed the pro-shot of Come From Away, don’t make the mistake of thinking that you’ve already seen the show. You need to see this musical in person. And if you’re yet to discover Come From Away, there’s a reason why so many people rave about it. Do yourself a favour and check it out. Come From Away finishes its Mulubinba/Newcastle season today but will soon open at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Tartanya/Adelaide. It’ll then head to Boorloo/Perth’s Crown Theatre in May and Ngunnawal Country/Canberra in June.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Richard Marx @ NEX, Mulubinba/Newcastle – 1 March 2023

It’s very rare that I drag myself out to two midweek gigs. But when Richard Marx announced he was playing NEX in Mulubinba/Newcastle, I knew I had to get myself there. I’ve been seeing bands at the site once known as Newcastle Workies (and if you’re a local, forever known as the Workies) since my teenage years. They hosted Teenage Rampages when I was growing up, headlined by acts like Peter Andre and Teen Queens. There were standalone gigs from EYC and Goo Goo Dolls. Of course a lot has changed, and not just the acts. I haven’t been since the rebranding and refurbishment. It’s definitely more sophisticated these days, but it still seemed like an odd choice for the man who’s written more number one songs than anyone else.

Richard’s guitarist, who goes by the moniker Dandelion Head, opened up for him. Looking at a picture of Dandelion Head, you can probably imagine what he sounds like. Looking like he’s just finished teaching yoga classes at Byron Bay and probably smelling like patchouli, he admits that his songs are a bit “hippy-dippy.” It was a strange choice of opener, but Dandelion Head is undeniably talented. After a busy work day, I quite enjoyed chilling out and embracing his relaxed vibe.

You don’t chill out to Richard Marx. You cheer loudly. You sing along. You do whatever you want, according to Richard, because this is your show. He encourages photos and videos, insisting that he didn’t spend time putting product in his hair for people not to look at him. He even obliged a quick selfie with an opportunistic fan before insisting he had to get back to the show everyone had paid money for.

While Richard opened with a track from his new album Songwriter, he didn’t stray too far from the hits. Songs like “Take This Heart”, “Endless Summer Nights,” and “Angelia” came out early, delivered with the kind of passion that makes you forget he’s sung them for decades. If he’s becoming tired of them, it doesn’t show. A talented songwriter, “This I Promise You,” made famous by NSYNC and “Long Hot Summer”, cowritten with our own Keith Urban, also made the set.

In between songs, Richard chatted easily, cracking jokes and making us feel like we were just catching up with a friend. He’s such a generous performer who isn’t afraid to let his audience in. He introduces us to his sons during “When You Loved Me,” playing along with a video featuring their accompanying instrumentation and vocals. We get a further glimpse into his world when he plays “Front Row” in front of video featuring him relaxing with his dog and wife Daisy Fuentes.

It seemed like we’d already heard so many hits by the time the encore rolled around, but except for “Front Row,” this portion of the show was all about those massive numbers. “Hazard,” “Satisfied,” “Should’ve Known Better,” and the beautiful piano ballad “Right Here Waiting.” We sang along in raptures, so appreciative to share space with this talent. I’ve seen Richard Marx four times now, and I’ll probably go again, because it’s always a good time. Like a fine wine, he only seems to get better with age. He continues his Australian tour tonight in Eora/Sydney:

5 March 2023 – State Theatre, Eora/Sydney
7 March 2023 – Anita’s Theatre, Thurrural Country/Thirroul
8 March 2023 – Panthers World of Entertainment, Darug Country/Penrith
10 March 2023 – The Astor Theatre, Boorloo/Perth

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Del Amitri @ Enmore Theatre, Eora/Newtown- 28 February 2023

I thought I’d missed out on the chance to see Scottish pop-rock act Del Amitri. They last toured Australia when I was around 10, and while they continue to gig around Europe I thought their days of international touring may be far behind them. I jumped on tickets when they finally announced an Aussie tour last year and felt fever-pitch excitement as I shuffled into the Enmore last Tuesday night.

Darren Middleton provided solid support, proving a capable frontman away from his Powderfinger bandmates. He could have taken the easy route and played at least one song from that massive Aussie act, but I appreciated his confidence in his solo skills. He’s such a gifted songwriter and he surrounds himself with quality musicians that help him bring them to life.

Looking at The Dels now, with graying hair and a few more wrinkles, you’re acutely aware of the passing of time. But then they play, and it’s as if no time has passed. Justin Currie’s voice sounds just as compelling as it ever did. While he and Iain Harvie are the only original members, the band sounds tight. Their songs have the power to transport you back to a simpler time, and I revelled in each and every one.

When you’re as good as Del Amitri, you don’t need to save big songs. “Always the Last to Know” was the fourth song of the night, “Kiss This Thing Goodbye” the sixth. I sang along to every word, although I missed the harmonica and banjo that drove the original recordings.

This wasn’t a nostalgia tour though. Songs from 2021 album Fatal Mistakes were scattered liberally through the set. From my privileged position in the dress circle, looking down on the front few rows, it seems the fans didn’t mind. They were there to hear all the old stuff back in the day, and they were thrilled to witness the new material they already knew well enough to sing along to.

They’re a band of few words, preferring to let the music do the talking. They seemed at ease on stage though, happy to share in this music with appreciative fans who helped them feel at home.

A generous five-song encore gave me some of my favourite moments of the show. Justin Currie took the lead on the stripped-back “Empty” and you could have heard a pin drop. It was a powerful, compelling performance that I’m going to remember for the rest of my life. “Be My Downfall” is my favourite Del Amitri song, and they saved it to the very end. I was starting to worry it wouldn’t make the set, as it didn’t crack the top 50 here in Australia, but it was so worth the wait. With house lights up and an audience singalong, I had chills.

I didn’t get back home until 1 am, which is some kind of lunacy in the middle of the week, but I was running on such post-gig adrenaline that I couldn’t sleep for hours. I can only hope the Dels had as much fun as I did. Maybe they won’t make us wait for another three decades before making a return visit.

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Mahalia Barnes + The Soul Mates @ Avoca Picture Theatre, Darkinjung Country/Avoca Beach – 23 February 2023

I’ve always felt pretty lucky to have Avoca Beach Picture Theatre in my local area. It’s the kind of movie theatre that has just one screen and favours independent films of quality to the big blockbusters. You can buy wine and local arts and crafts in the foyer, and at one point a cat would wander around the cinema and sit on the lap of chosen guests. It’s the kind of place that is becoming all too rare. But now that they’re welcoming some of Australia’s best musicians to their intimate space, I’m even more thrilled. You might remember me catching The Whitlams Black Stump Band there recently, and last night I was back again for Mahalia Barnes.

To say her pal Bek Jensen warmed up the stage would be an understatement. Her voice is red hot, bluesy and soulful. She’s got a real warmth about her that draws you in. Captivating an audience for a set of originals isn’t easy, but she made it look effortless. Apparently, she’s recently moved to the coast, so I look forward to seeing a lot more of her. Incredible.

I’ve seen Mahalia Barnes a few times before, but I’ve never seen a set quite like this. She let us know this was a by-request show, with heckling encouraged, with a big smile on her face. Without a set list, this show had a real spontaneity which made it so much fun. Mahalia was also surrounded by her “chosen family,” long-term band members The Soul Mates and gal pals Bek and Karen Lee Andrews (who you might remember as Miss Murphy from The Voice). Supported by musicians and vocalists she trusted, she told us they could do anything so long as one or two of them knew the song. That certainly seemed to be the case. Mahalia’s admiration over Bec’s whistling in her supporting slot naturally led to an impromptu cover of “(Sittin’ On) the Dock of the Bay.” A throwaway line to Karen as she exited the stage was an easy segue into “I Will Survive”. Mahalia insisted she wouldn’t do it, but couldn’t refuse as the band carried her away.

The audience was kind, mostly suggesting soulful hits like “Proud Mary” and “Midnight Train to Georgia.” Not like Bowral, who apparently insisted she try out a little Metallica! Of course, there were the inevitable requests for music from her famous dad’s back catalogue, but her takes on “When Something is Wrong With My Baby” and “Flame Trees” showed she was up to the challenge. Her version of “Heading in the Right Direction,” a tribute to the late great Renee Geyer, who Mahalia credited for paving the way for artists like herself, was another real highlight.

I’ve always enjoyed Mahalia’s original material so I was glad that some of those songs bookended this set. However, watching her play with originals so joyfully was a real treat. Her voice is one of the best in the business, and she has such a presence on stage. I’d be remiss if I didn’t shout out to her incredible band too. Watching Lachy Doley attack the keys, Franco Raggatt deliver blistering guitar solos, and Mahalia and crew so wrapped up in appreciating their contributions, was magic. I love a good jam, and this show really delivered on that score.

Mahalia insisted she’d be back, and I hope she’ll stay true to her word. To see an artist of her calibre, backed by such a quality band, in an intimate venue like Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, is too good to pass up. Mahalia has a few more of these shows to go. If you’re local, you don’t want to miss them:

24 February 2023 – The Great Club, Bulanaming/Marrickville
25 February 2023 – Centro, Woolyungah/Wollongong
5 March 2023 – Tallagandra Hill Winery, Gundungurra Country/Southern Highlands
12 March 2023 – Brighter Days Festival, Dhudhuroa, Taungurung, Waywurru, Gunaikurnai and Jaithmathang Country/Bright

Image used with permission from Ferries Davies PRM