Tag: John Farnham

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Tour of Duty Live at National Stadium” – Various Artists

In 1999, a who’s who of the Australian entertainment industry descended on Dili to entertain our troops. Australian Road Crew Association has now released a recording of their star-studded concert. Tour of Duty Live at National Stadium’s release marks the first time that people could enjoy this concert since it originally aired on Channel Seven and Nine.

This album captures a moment in time. It feels like forever since Roy & HG hosted a gig, and gee it’s good to hear them taking the reins here. We get to hear Doc Neeson at the height of his powers delivering hits like “Shadow Boxer” and “No Secrets,” and John Farnham belting out so many of his classics like “Playing to Win” and “That’s Freedom.” He even “reluctantly” agrees to a rousing rendition of “Sadie (The Cleaning Lady)”! We’ve lost Doc, and likely we’ll never hear John Farnham sound like this again, so it’s a real thrill listening to them separately and duetting on timeless tracks like a medley of The Easybeats’ “She’s So Fine” and “Sorry.” Relative up-and-comers at the time like Gina Jeffreys and The Living End also make incredible appearances, along with our pop princess Kylie. You couldn’t wipe the smile from my face as I listened to big singalong numbers featuring the entire cast like “You’re The Voice” and the poignant closer, “I Still Call Australia Home.”

Admittedly some bits haven’t aged well, from the RMC Band’s cover of “Mambo No. 5” to John Farnham introducing Rachel Starkey of the RMC Band as a “pretty young lady.” But again, I remind you, this album captures a moment in time. And what a moment it was.

If there wasn’t enough incentive to get your ears around this release, all money raised with benefit Support Act’s Roadies Fund, which provides financial, health, counselling, and wellbeing services to local roadies and crews in crisis. Tour of Duty Live at National Stadium is out now and available on streaming services and as a digital download.

Images used with permission from On the Map PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

One Electric Day @ Cockatoo Island, Sydney – 9 November 2019

After six successful Victorian events, One Electric Day decided to share the love and go national. Sydney responded, snapping up so many tickets organisers moved the show to the picturesque Cockatoo Island. While arriving for that early morning ferry meant this Central Coast girl set off around 8am, the beautiful trip down the harbour helped me get into the spirit. What a magic spot Cockatoo Island is. It didn’t hurt that we were blessed with the kind of weather I rarely experience during outdoor concerts, with beautiful blue skies and mild temperatures. Absolutely perfect.

After playing MC, Taylor Sheridan strapped on his acoustic guitar for the first set of the day. I’ve seen talented singer-songwriter play at several Red Hot Summer shows and he always impresses. He played some stellar originals and just enough covers to keep the punters on side, although that was a real challenge when his set was broken into two parts. I’m not sure who thought it would be a good idea for him to play two sets, but as his second act wore on I could sense most of us were ready for the bigger names. It’s a shame, because he really is a talent.

No doubt some of my restlessness can be attributed to my excitement about seeing Southern Sons. I was just 14 when the Melbourne outfit disbanded, too young to go to the shows. Hearing they would play together again was all the incentive I needed to snap up tickets. After waiting a quarter of a century for this set, you can bet my expectations were high. Southern Sons did not let me down though. I knew Jack Jones was still in fine form, after catching him solo a few months back, but the chemistry he has with his band mates really elevated this set to the next level. What a treat to hear not just the singles but album cuts as well. Watching the gratitude on Jack’s face as he led us in a singalong of “Hold Me in Your Arms” was a highlight amongst a really special set. Can I put in an early request for a tour? The Southern Sons story doesn’t feel done.

Vanessa Amorosi also took me back to my youth, opening up with an abridged version of “Absolutely Everybody” before bringing us all the attitude of “Have a Look.” She doesn’t look or move like she’s aged a day. I marvelled at the way she could jump down off the speakers, mix with the crowd, then jump back up to continue her set. I tried to get up on my kitchen bench to clean my aircon recently and failed miserably. But I digress. Needless to say, Vanessa puts us all to shame. She might look like she’s still in her teens and she certainly doesn’t mind bringing us the hits, but her set wasn’t just about that early nostalgia. As I watched her perform, I realised just how many smashing singles she’s had over the years. She introduced us to a handful of new tracks from her recently released album Back to Love as well, proving that her best music may be yet to come.

I’ve got to admit, by the time Jon Stevens was ready to grace the stage, I felt spent. The early morning and time on my feet caught up with me and I retired to my chair. I might have left the party early though, because Jon Stevens’ set was the highlight for many. Delivering Noiseworks and INXS hits was always going to go down a treat with this crowd, who were soon spilling out over the standing room zone. He’s such a rock star too, with all the moves to keep an audience in the palm of his hand. A surprise appearance from former bandmate Steve Balbi was the icing on the top of a tasty musical cake.

Every time I see James Reyne perform I remember just how much I love him. His songs are absolutely flawless. He’s a really cool dude that does his thing with such professionalism and heart, without any real fuss or fanfare. He always treats us to a greatest hits set, yet it never feels forced or formulaic. It’s easy to forget he’s sung these songs countless times because he puts so much of himself in them. And what songs they are too. “Reckless,” “Errol,” “Hammerhead,” “Beautiful People,” “Slave,” I could go on. Every one an absolute winner.

Speaking of greatest hits, John Farnham closed the show the only way he can. With those songs and that voice that are exactly what people come to see. The love for one of Australia’s most iconic singers is palpable, and he gives it right back to the audience. The hits come thick and fast, keeping the energy at 11. He doesn’t even seem to mind playing “Sadie” these days. Personally I’d love to see him shake up the sets because after a few shows in recent years I’m starting to anticipate what he’ll do when and how. Still, predictability isn’t the worst thing in the world when what you do gets so much love. Nothing beats that singalong to “You’re The Voice” either!

Shuffling back onto the ferries to start the long journey back to the coast I felt exhausted; I’d been on the go for more than 14 hours at that point and knew I was still around three from getting to my front door. However, I also felt buoyed by the local talents I’d witnessed that day. I might have been there for one of the earliest bands, but there were no weak links. You’re coming back next year One Electric Day, right?

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

John Farnham @ Bimbadgen Estate, Pokolbin – 1 December 2018

You know it’s summer in Australia once the mercury soars and you find yourself with a bottle of semillon at a Day on the Green event. I wasted no time getting into the summer spirit, visiting Bimbadgen Estate in the Hunter for its first Day on the Green show of the season on Saturday.

It’s been so long since I’ve been to a Day on the Green that I didn’t anticipate the traffic. My party were enjoying a leisurely lunch in the same suburb and were sure 15 minutes would be enough time to get to the venue. Unfortunately, it was not to be. I was so looking forward to Bachelor Girl’s set too. Sadly though, by the time I got to my seat they were walking off stage. They sounded amazing though. Next time.

Thankfully I was happily in my seat with that important bottle of sem, necessary for combatting that summer heat, by the time Russell Morris graced the stage. He was the only artist on the bill I hadn’t seen before, so I was really excited to see what this Aussie legend could do. What a wonderful performance he gave, full of technical prowess and charisma, with classics, more recent bluesy hits from his latest smash albums, and some choice covers. I’d forgotten how much I love “Wings of an Eagle.” His takes on Dylan’s “It’s All Over Now Baby Blue” and “Hush” were inspired. And of course, “The Real Thing” was a psychedelic delight.

He might have been sandwiched in the middle of the bill, but Richard Marx was my headliner. His set was all too brief, but that meant there was no time for fillers. The hits came thick and fast. Most drew from Richard’s early days with a “fluffy mullet.” I adored these chart toppers like “Endless Summer Nights” and “Should’ve Known Better.” But I was also thrilled to hear “Angelia,” a favourite song that didn’t crack the top 30, and “Long Hot Summer,” a song perfect for this weather he penned for Keith Urban. Those tracks I didn’t expect to hear helped make amends to the fans like me who would have loved to hear him play longer. By the time he played his torch ballad and HotelsCombined anthem “Right Here Waiting,” he had the whole crowd singing along. I’m not sure whether the sound mix was a little off early or whether I simply got used to the problem though. It’s a shame that this factor beyond his control marred an otherwise stellar performance.

You know you’re in good hands when two of Australia’s most beloved artists, Daryl Braithwaite and John Farnham, close out a show. Dazza’s voice took a little time to warm up, struggling to hit the higher notes in opener “Higher Than Hope,” but we sang loud enough to cover his failings until he hit his stride. His greatest hits set, drawing from the days of Sherbet and his solo career, was perfect for an event like this. No sooner had I sat down for a rest I was back up on my feet dancing to another favourite. None is greater than “The Horses” though, the kind of track that today encourages millennials to don horse heads and thrust hobby horses to the sky as they sing out that chorus. I was in fine voice alongside them.

John Farnham remains the consummate Australian performer. He’s a man whose voice needs no warm-up, whose songs are embraced by Australians of all ages. Like so many Aussies I’ve seen John several times over the years. Recently the sets were sounding a little samey, so I was thrilled to hear a few tracks from the classic album Whispering Jack he rarely plays. I’d forgotten how much I love “One Step Away.” The beautiful ballad “Touch of Paradise” was a real highlight, along with the rocking crowd pleaser “Take the Pressure Down.” But I’m not sure anything beats being in a crowd of Aussies joining voices with Farnsy belting out “You’re The Voice.” What a special moment.

With a stellar line-up of Aussie talent and a special import, A Day on the Green has kicked off its 2018/2019 season with a bang. Bring on the rest of the events!

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Red Hot Summer @ Mt Penang Parklands (Central Coast) & Cockatoo Island (Sydney) – 24 & 25 February 2018

In my teenage years, it wasn’t unusual for me to see several shows back-to-back. Now in my late 30s, after two days at the Red Hot Summer shows, I’m feeling every one of my years. I’m tired. My feet hurt. My lower back is achy. I’m thankful that I gave myself a little time to recover before going back to work, because I need it. Was it all worth it though? Absolutely!

I decided to write a combined review of both shows because while the weather varied, this was essentially the same concert. It makes sense really, with each act crafting a set full of the right songs to delight the fans.

But as I mentioned, the weather. It really went from one extreme to the other, and neither was ideal. This is the risk with staging an outdoor concert. The gods might smile down and gift you the perfect sunny day, not too hot or too cold. Or you might get the sort of heatwave conditions I experienced at Mt Penang Parklands on the Central Coast. The kind that make you feel so lightheaded you wonder whether you’ll make it to the first band. Or you might get the kind of gloomy cold day with torrential rain that soaked us to the skin at Cockatoo Island in Sydney. Neither is ideal for a live show, but if you get right the things you can control, the crowds won’t mind too much.

The organisers of Red Hot Summer must be commended for that. The line-up was exceptional, perhaps even better than the one I saw in 2017. There was a diverse array of food vendors serving quality eats fast. There were plenty of toilets. We weren’t left waiting too long between acts; the MC’s giveaways helped keep us all interested until we were ready to rock again.


I also appreciate that Red Hot Summer is more than a nostalgia fest. Every year I look forward to discovering new talent. In 2018, Red Hot Summer delivered with Taylor Sheridan, an up-and-coming singer-songwriter from country Victoria. It’s always easy for an entertainer with pop-rock leanings playing an acoustic guitar to pique my interest. But to hold it takes something special. While his cover of “Billie Jean” was inspired, I was impressed with his excellent originals which rewarded anyone willing to listen to the lyrics. “Beauty of the Plan” and new single “Friends Like Me” were standouts. Finishing with a cover of “April Sun in Cuba” was the perfect way to win over anyone who wasn’t already on his side.


1927 are one of my favourite childhood bands, and as I discovered last year they’ve lost nothing. The band are tight and Eric Weideman’s voice is still so powerful. I wish I was feeling better for the Mt Penang show, as I felt I didn’t get to enjoy their set quite as much as I should have. I made up for lost time in Sydney though, jumping around and pumping my fists in the air during “You’ll Never Know.” “Compulsory Hero” gave me chills both shows. And those massive singles, “That’s When I Think Of You” and “If I Could,” has us all singing along.


The Black Sorrows were one of the standouts of last year’s Good Times tour, and they stamped their authority on the Red Hot Summer stages too. Joe Camilleri might be one of Australia’s most charming front men. I could watch him sing, wail on his saxophone, and dance around with wild abandon all day. Add in the divine voices of Vika and Linda Bull and you’re always going to have a good time. It was another superb set, with hit singles and some lesser known cuts represented. I loved watching the chemistry between Linda and Joe during “Baby It’s a Crime” and seeing Vika totally owning “Never Let Me Go.”


The Baby Animals were the only one of the big acts I’d never seen live before. Now that I have, I wonder why I left things so long. Suze DeMarchi oozes cool, even if she’s battling the heatstroke that plagued so many of us at Mt Penang. She’s definitely one of the most charismatic people I’ve ever seen performing. The way she moves, her commanding voice, her look, it’s all so impressive. The big hits like “Early Warning” and “Painless” sounded every bit as good as they did on the records, but had that extra special something that can only come from a live show. New single “Tonight” proved this is a band still in its prime, not one that needs to simply trade on nostalgia.


Daryl Braithwaite is such hot property right now. I’m not quite sure when it happened, but somewhere along the way he became really cool again. Millennials fell in love with “The Horses,” and there were plenty of them at the show, waving inflatable hobby horses and wearing rubber horse heads as they clapped along. But Daryl is much more than “The Horses.” While that song was the natural closer, it came after Dazza reminded us of his stellar career with Sherbet and solo smashes. Songs like “Summer Love” and “One Summer” are made for festivals like this.


The roar that came from the crowd suggested it wasn’t just the women with custom-made John Farnham shirts hanging out for Farnsy. There’s a certain air of excitement when he takes the stage, an indescribable feeling that magic will happen. Ably supported by his band of recognisable faces, musicians and vocalists who have been with him for decades, John belted out hit after hit. His was the sort of set you can sing along to, no matter whether you’ve ever bought a Farnsy album. These songs are in our DNA, from tender ballads like “Burn For You” to the show stoppers like “The Voice.” In between John chatted happily to the crowd, cracking jokes easily, then speaking with sincerity of the gratitude he has for those of us who stood in the heat or rain to hear his music. When the sets of most artists didn’t change, John made each show unique for his fans. The Central Coast was treated to “Don’t You Know It’s Magic” and the much maligned “Sadie the Cleaning Lady.” For Sydney it could be nothing other than “Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head.” They did, but with John to keep us company it was easier to grin and bear it.

The two Red Hot Summer shows in New South Wales didn’t happen under ideal circumstances, but by getting the essentials right the organisers ensured the crowds had the best time they could have hoped for. Bring on 2019, hopefully with better weather than this year brought!

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Red Hot Summer @ Westport Park, Port Macquarie – 4 February 2017

Port Macquarie is nearly four hours from my place. It’s a lovely part of the world, but it takes something special to get me to make the journey. But the combination of an irresistible Red Hot Summer line-up and a catch-up with my friend Lisa (who hails from Brissie, so had a much longer journey than me) was too good to pass up.

Ben Hazelwood helped make the already warm crowd that little bit warmer. They don’t call these shows Red Hot Summer for nothing! I knew his name rang a bell, but was surprised to read that he was on the first season of The Voice. As I saw photos I remembered a performer who was talented but a little bland, a world away from this sexy rock god that graced the stage. He had just the right amount of drama and theatrics to pull me in, and his voice has matured so much in just a few years. I thoroughly enjoyed his set and made a mental note to check out more of his compelling originals.

From new discoveries to old favourites, Taxiride were up next. I knew a whole lot of hardcore Taxiride fans when I was in my late teens, but I can only recall catching them once. Watching them on the stage, I felt a little regret that I didn’t see more of them in the ’90s. They’re every bit as good as they once were, if you were wondering, with some of the tightest harmonies you’ll ever hear and a back catalogue that’s bigger than you might expect. I found myself singing along with every song and clapping heartily for them, enjoying myself thoroughly despite the rain that would plague the rest of the evening.
I’ve never really been a Shannon Noll fan. His music is easy to listen to, but it always felt a little Triple M by the numbers for me. However, seeing him live I have a brand new appreciation for Nollsy. He’s such a showman, the quintessential Aussie larrikin with a great collection of songs that make people smile. Simple. I turned to my husband and said watching Nollsy belt out The Choirboys’ “Run to Paradise” may just be the most Australian thing I’ve ever seen at a gig. And even though he’s probably sung “What About Me?” more times than I’ve had hot dinners, he still put all his heart and soul into it. I was also not so secretly thrilled to see him decked out in double denim, with jeans and a sleeveless vest. I’m not sure he could have chosen a more perfect outfit!

Jon Stevens stood in for an ailing Daryl Braithwaite. I must admit, it took me a little while to warm up to him. In a show like this, you have such a short time with the fans. And let’s face it, as a fill-in act, they’re probably not your fans. So to start slow to a bunch of songs most of us didn’t know seemed an odd choice. All was forgiven once the hits started coming through. As well as the Noiseworks standards there was “Disappear,” an INXS track which reminded me of the very first time I saw Jon, fronting the seminal Aussie rock band. He also paid tribute to Dazza with a stirring cover of “The Horses.” By “Hot Chilli Woman” we were all in ecstasy right along with him.

James Reyne was the act I was most looking forward to, and as always, he didn’t disappoint. I’ve seen him play so many times, but mostly in an acoustic setting. So to hear him electric with a full band was bags of fun. His set was flawless, delivering all of the songs anyone could hope for, from his days with Australian Crawl to his solo successes. What a talent.

John Farnham was the man so many people of Port Macquarie came to see, as is evidence by how quickly the general admission area filled once his set began. It’s a shame that Westport Park doesn’t slope, because any parts that I could see from my comfy camp chair were on the big screens rather than the stage as people gathered in front. John Farnham’s voice is undeniable though. His set brought us hit after hit from his solo career and even his time in Little River Band. “Burn For You” was a poignant highlight, although it would have been nice if the yobbos in front of me could have quit laughing as they hoisted women onto their shoulders and taken a moment to be quiet and listen. It’s all about respect guys, for both the artists and the people around you who want to get lost in the music. My husband and I had to stand for “The Voice” because, well, it seemed unAustralian not to. During it my husband turned to me and said “No Lauren, this is the most Australian thing we’ve ever witnessed as a concert.” As we all sang out the chorus is was hard to disagree. As John came back for an encore I wondered what could be left in his repertoire. Where do you go after “The Voice”? It seems you visit the back catalogue of another legendary Aussie act, AC/DC. “It’s a Long Way to the Top” was the ideal end for this celebration of Aussie talent. I just wondered though, why not make use of the bagpipers you’ve already brought for “The Voice”? It seemed a strange choice.

Before I go, I should make mention of how well run the day was. The staff were exceptional. The personable MC made those moments between acts fly by. While the food and drink vendors didn’t deliver anything too flash, the food was hot and the lines were short. The bar queues didn’t even seem too intimidating, although the decision not to serve wine was a strange one. Special props to the Lions Club who diligently collected our rubbish throughout the day. It’s got to be such a thankless job, but it made the place feel so much nicer.

Port Macquarie is a long way to go for any concert, but the Red Hot Summer tour was definitely worth the trip.

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Friends for Christmas” – John Farnham & Olivia Newton-John

It’s officially the silly season, a time when we can unashamedly enjoy a little schmaltz and sweetness. We get both in abundance in Friends for Christmas, a new holiday release from good pals and Aussie legends John Farnham and Olivia Newton-John.

This is the ideal album to slip on while you’re trimming your tree or entertaining the family on Christmas Day. It’s merry, joyful, and full of cheer. Old favourites like “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” are delivered with childlike enthusiasm. But for me the real standouts are the songs that allow these two incredible voices to soar. You can’t help but be captivated by more traditional choices like “The Little Drummer Boy” and the closing number, “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” hits all the right notes; it’s tender and so exquisitely executed.

There’s no disputing the talent of these artists. Separately they’re amazing, but listening to them harmonise and feed off one another’s energy takes things to another level. When they get together, magic happens. And isn’t that what Christmas is all about?

Friends for Christmas is in stores now.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Billy Fox Covers Farnsy

I always love an interesting cover version. It’s so exciting when an artist can make me look at a song differently and reveal parts of the lyrics I hadn’t tapped in to before. So in that spirit, check out Billy Fox’s take on John Farnham’s 80s classic, “Pressure Down.”

“I originally did an arrangement of it at live shows with no plans to release it, until fans kept asking how they could get their hands on it,” explained the Sydney-based songwriter. “So I rearranged it in my studio and sent my arrangement to Sesta (The Funkoars) who added some more drums and other sounds to it”.

I know this stripped back cover isn’t going to appeal to everyone, but I think this unique cover really works. Love it or hate it, I’d love to know what you think!

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Northlane Scores First Number One

Sydney metalcore band Northlane has made a big impact on the ARIA charts, debuting at number one on debut with the latest effort Node. It’s their first number one, and their first album featuring new frontman Marcus Bridge.

With Northlane and another strong debut from Lamb of God, last week’s number one, Tame Impala’s Currents, has been pushed down to number three.

Another previous number one, Two Strong Hearts from living legends John Farnham and Olivia Newton-John, has dropped a few spots to land at number 10 this week.

Delta Goodrem’s the lone Aussie representing us in the singles top 10. Her new single “Wings” sits at number eight, making it the week’s highest debut.

Click below for this week’s top tens.

Continue reading “Northlane Scores First Number One” →

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

John Farnham and Olivia Newton-John On Top of ARIA Albums Charts

I’ve been a bit lax on reporting Aussie chart news of late. I missed writing about when Grace topped the charts, and when her brother Conrad Sewell followed suit. But as John Farnham clocked up his ninth number one album with Two Strong Hearts, I figured I really needed to make the time. Farnsy’s now scored number ones (whether singles or albums) every decade for the last six decades. And let’s not forget about his partner in crime, Olivia Newton-John, who’s now scored her third number one on the albums charts.

Empires, the latest album from Hillsong United, is still going strong. The modern church’s latest effort is at number five, six weeks after its debut.

Blacktown deathcore band Thy Art is Murder will also be happy with their first ever top ten appearance. Their third album, Holy War, sits at number seven on debut.

Conrad and Grace might have slipped away from the number one spots but they’re still making their presence felt on the singles chart. Conrad’s single “Start Again” has slipped slightly to number three while Grace’s cover of “You Don’t Own Me” has fallen to number eight.

Here are the complete top tens for the week!

Top 10 Albums
1. Two Strong Hearts – John Farnham and Olivia Newtown-John
2. Title – Meghan Trainor
3. X – Ed Sheeran
4. How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful – Florence & The Machine
5. Empires – Hillsong United
6. 1989 – Taylor Smith
7. Holy War – Thy Art is Murder
8. Unbreakable Smile – Tori Kelly
9. In the Lonely Hour – Sam Smith
10. Freedom – Refused

Top 10 Singles
1. “Like I’m Gonna Lose You” – Meghan Trainor feat. John Legend
2. “Fight Song” – Rachel Platten
3. “Start Again” – Conrad Sewell
4. “Can’t Feel My Face” – The Weeknd
5. “Shut Up & Dance” – Walk the Moon
6. “Headlights” – Robin Schulz feat. Ilsey
7. “Bad Blood” – Taylor Swift feat. Kendrick Lamar
8. “You Don’t Own Me” – Grace feat G-Eazy
9. “Black Magic” – Little Mix
10. “Powerful” – Major Lazer feat. Ellie Goulding & Tarrus Riley

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

John Farnham & Lionel Richie @ Tempus Two Winery, Hunter Valley – 8 March 2014

For not the first time this year, I’m wondering where the time’s gone. It seems like only yesterday that I was grooving out to John Farnham and Lionel Richie in the Hunter Valley, yet another weekend is already upon us. So it seems like the perfect time to reflect on this killer double bill.

He wasn’t announced on any of the posters, but the evening actually kicked off with an unassuming singer-songwriter by the name of Joe Moore. Some Googling tell me this Brit-turned-Aussie actually made it to the Australia’s Got Talent finals a few years back, but these days he spends most of his time busking in Pitt Street Mall. Tempus Two provided a much bigger stage than the Sydney shopping strip, and probably more than a guy with an acoustic guitar needs. However, somehow he held those of who showed up early transfixed. So many people around me were buzzing about his talent, wondering why they’d never heard of him before. Personally I preferred to sit silently, taking in the romantic, poetic words he sang in stunning voice which had just the right amount of edge. He reminded me a lot of Howie Day, one of my favourite American singer-songwriters, quiet but assured and capable of really soaring when the songs call for it. He performed two short sets as the seats filled up, and while he wasn’t the reason I came to this gig, I was definitely sorry to see him leave the stage. I’ll be keeping an eye out for his gigs in future.

I adored Joe, but the show definitely kicked up a few notches when John Farnham took to the stage. He’s the consummate professional who just seems to get better with age. His voice continues to be one of the best in the business, and even in his advanced years there’s such energy about the way he performs. The band contains so many familiar faces who I remember seeing as a kid on Hey Hey It’s Saturday. By surrounding himself with these people so familiar with the songs, John ensures his show is one of the tightest around. And those songs, my goodness. I’ve never considered myself a big John Farnham fan. I own a greatest hits album, but that’s about it. Yet his music just seems to seep into the consciousness of every Australian. I found myself singing along to each and every tune. Belting out “You’re The Voice” with the Hunter Valley crowd in full voice was one of the most powerful concert experiences of my life. There’s just something about that song that makes you so proud to be an Aussie.

Since I don’t consider myself a massive John Farnham fan, I guess I’ve outed myself as a Lionel Richie devotee. Yet funnily enough, when he stepped on the stage I was feeling a little deflated. He started with “Just For You,” an upbeat number delivered with plenty of gusto that didn’t really match how any of us felt about the 2004 release. Let’s face it, the noughties were hardly Lionel’s best years. Thankfully he slipped back into the classics quickly with “Easy.” Sitting down at the piano Lionel seemed to have a lot more control over his vocals, however they were hardly on a par with Farnsy’s. I’m not sure Lionel was ever the best vocalist, but hearing him perform so soon after John made him seem a little subpar.
Happily it didn’t take too long for me to shake off my feelings of disappoint. Pretty soon the songs started to shine through, as did Lionel’s showmanship. Early on his particular brand of entertainment felt a little try-hard compared to John’s easy connection to his audience, yet after a few tracks I started giving myself over to the experience. By “Brick House” I was having a ball. By “Dancing on the Ceiling” I was in my element. I barely sat down all set as I sang myself hoarse. It took a little while for me to ease into things, but by the end of the night I was gushing.

Three great acts, so much amazing music. Does it get any better than that?

Image source: own photos