Rob Thomas – Sydney and Hunter Valley, 13 and 16 November 2019

Live music always makes my heart beat faster. However, there is one artist on the planet that takes my excitement to the next level: Rob Thomas. Whether he’s fronting Matchbox Twenty or playing solo, he is the performer who has the largest piece of my heart. His Chip Tooth Tour was a long time coming, nearly four years since his last Australian dates, so by the time last week rolled around I was more than ready.

One Rob Thomas show isn’t enough for me. I considered writing two reviews, one for Sydney and another for the Hunter Valley, but frankly the week passed in a whirlwind and now here I am, basking in the afterglow. Sydney was the perfect warm-up. First State Super Theatre strikes the right balance; it’s small enough to feel intimate but not so tiny that it can’t attract big acts for their only gigs in the NSW capital. The Hunter Valley show was part of the Day on the Green series. These events always seem so leisurely and relaxed, with so many good vibes. Sorry Sydney, but it also seemed to have the best crowd. Maybe I was just unlucky with seating in Sydney, but it was so nice to travel up the freeway to be amongst fans who seemed to care more about the music than making trips to the bar!

I’m glad that Daryl Braithwaite was the support act we doubled up on. I’ve made mention in the past of his voice fading, but I think he was in the best form I’ve seen in a while. You can still hear the limitations at time, but it’s a minor quibble from an artist who delivers so much. His set was packed with his Sherbet and solo hits, although an unexpected cover of The Kinks’ “All Day and All Of The Night” was a welcome addition in Sydney. What a shame the Hunter Valley security decided to try to make everyone sit down just before “The Horses.” Thank you, Daryl, for insisting it wouldn’t hurt us to rise to our feet for a couple of minutes! Staying seated for this unofficial anthem just wouldn’t have felt right!

The Hunter Valley’s extended line-up saw Russell Morris and Pete Murray joining us. I raved about Russell when I saw him at the same venue a couple of years ago and he was every bit as appealing this time around. His voice shows no sign of fatigue, impressive at the age of 71. He has so many hits to his name and they came thick and fast, rewarding those of us who arrived early enough to catch his set. He really deserved better than so many vacant seats. He was excellent.

I wish I could get as excited about Pete Murray, but for not the first time I just wasn’t feeling it. Ordinarily I can’t get enough of good-looking men who play guitars, but his songs never seem to get out of second gear for me. He performs them well, sounding virtually identical to the way he does in the studio, but I just can’t muster any kind of enthusiasm for them. Putting Pete after Daryl Braithwaite, who had me and so many of the folks around me, so fired up also seemed a bit cruel.

Whether I couldn’t wait for the support act to vacate the stage (sorry Pete) or I embraced their set (love your work Dazza!), I was primed for Rob Thomas. Opening with a new album track like “I Love It” was a risky move, but it was really the perfect introduction to Rob’s set; upbeat, engaging, and sexy as hell. It might have been called the Chip Tooth Tour, but Rob knows how to strike the right balance for serious fans and casual listeners. I would have liked to hear more from the new album, Chip Tooth Smile, but the four or five songs he played from it made space in the set for more songs from the back catalogue. The solo hits and Matchbox cuts came thick and fast, along with a smattering of lesser known songs for the diehards like me. I was thrilled to hear “Sunday Morning New York Blue,” an EP track, and fan favourite “Pieces” make the cut in the Hunter, while “Heaven Help Me” was an unexpected delight in Sydney. “Fire on the Mountain isn’t one of my favourite album tracks, but it really gets a new power on the stage. Adding Indigenous dancers to the mix in Sydney brought some extra gravitas.

Speaking of surprises, they don’t get much bigger than Andrew Farriss from INXS gracing the stage for a cover of “Never Tear Us Apart” in the Hunter. The chemistry between the longtime friends and the quality of this Aussie classic made it a real moment to remember. If you can’t get Santana out here for “Smooth,” then 10-year-old guitar prodigy Taj Farrant makes an impressive substitute.


It seems to me like Rob is aging in reverse. I think it’s the only reasonable explanation for his boundless energy. He put on a rock star performance, without the bells and whistles of so many modern rock shows. Without projections or pyrotechnics, the focus was squarely on the music and the way Rob delivered it. Most of his band has been with him since his first solo tour, and it shows. However, as much as I appreciate the big full-band numbers, it was the quieter, more reflective times in the set that really got me. I don’t mind saying that I found myself wiping away tears in acoustic performances of “Ever the Same” in Sydney and “Bent” in the Hunter. With an acoustic guitar and Rob’s voice, supported by a choir of enthusiastic fans, those songs were as raw as the emotions they stirred in me.

When you anticipate a tour as much as I did this one, it can sometimes be hard for the performer to meet your expectation. But I know Rob never lets me down. Like a fine wine, he only seems to get better with age. The dust may still be settling on my recent shows, but I’m already hanging out for the next tour. Rob Thomas plays Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne tonight before concluding the Chip Tooth Tour at Perth’s Kings Park on November 23.

Image source: own photos

Rob Thomas @ State Theatre, Sydney – 26 February 2016

When I was in my late teens and early 20s, one Matchbox Twenty or Rob Thomas show was never enough. I’d see multiple gigs, never wanting the tour to be over. They were so much fun, but the sets rarely changed from night to night. I’d get excited about the odd cover that was different and insist that was worth the price of admission alone.

So when I bought tickets for Rob Thomas’ State Theatre show, despite having plans to catch him at the Opera House Forecourt, I expected a similar scenario. What I got was two completely shows this tour, both wonderful in their own way. After the party atmosphere of the Opera House show, it was wonderful to have a quieter night and enjoy the intimate and personal vibe of the State Theatre show.

Rob downsized his band to a trio and delivered stripped back versions of songs, ensuring their lyrics came to the fore. It was so exciting to hear a new complexion to upbeat tracks I’d heard a couple of nights before like “This Is How a Heart Breaks” and “Lonely No More.” I also loved the chance to hear the songs that didn’t make Wednesday night’s performance. “Heaven Help Me” from The Great Unknown probably would have been lost in the electric set, but it was perfect for this more intimate evening. “Sunday Morning, New York Blue,” a track lifted not from an album but the Someday EP, was another welcome new addition.

But for a girl whose love for Rob’s music began with Matchbox Twenty, the number of tracks that came from his band was really exciting. Ordinarily Rob plays just a couple of Matchbox songs, preferring to stick to the solo material. However, the stars aligned on Friday night and we heard everything from hits like “Bright Lights,” “Disease,” and “Bent” to the moody “You Won’t Be Mine,” an album track from Mad Season.

Anyone who’s read this blog for a while knows I love an acoustic show. Jumping around and dancing to a band turned up to 11 is a blast, but it rarely moves me as much as sitting down listening to songs stripped back to their core. Add in personal stories about the origin of those songs and I’m sold. I’ve seen Rob Thomas perform many times, and I’m sure I’ll see him many more, but Friday night’s acoustic show is the one that will stand out from the rest. It was perfection.

Image source: own photos

Rob Thomas @ Sydney Opera House Forecourt, Sydney – 24 February 2016

It’s been six long years since Rob Thomas graced us with a solo tour. That time around he was promoting his sophomore solo album Cradlesong and the heavens opened up, making Hope Estate a soggy muddy mess. Yesterday couldn’t have been more different, a steamy summer’s day that made me worry about getting burned even with a wide-brimmed hat and healthy helping of 50+ sunscreen. Those weather extremes aren’t ideal for an outdoor show, but when I know Rob Thomas will soon be in front of me I’m always willing to grin and bear it.

But first I had to make it through Pete Murray. I don’t know what it is about Pete Murray. He’s a good-looking guy who sings folky acoustic guitar driven music. On paper, he’s exactly what I like. However, I’ve just never been able to engage with him. Probably those moments anticipating a performance from my very favourite singer in the world weren’t the ones I’d suddenly develop an appreciation for Pete. I will say that he performed very well. He joked about the men a little less reluctant to embrace his set, and encouraged them to sing along as well. He sounded just as he does on the radio and he has a really tight band. His lead guitarist was particularly impressive. He played all the hits, although hearing them one after another only reinforced my idea that his music is a little samey. I couldn’t fault what he did. It just still wasn’t for me.

Rob Thomas on the other hand …

I wondered whether in a week that was sadly shrouded in controversy I could expect the same energy and fun from Rob, but as he burst out with “Give Me the Meltdown,” a high-energy number from Cradlesong. It left no doubt that we were all there to have a good time, and that’s just what we did. In fact, I think I might have had the most fun I’ve ever had at a Rob Thomas show, and believe me there have been a few. Rob kept the energy up with “Fallin’ to Pieces,” “Lonely No More,” and “Her Diamonds.” I marvelled at the song choices, a wonderful mix of the numbers everyone knew and the tracks near and dear to the heart of the fans who buy the albums.

A stripped back, raw performance of “Ever the Same” had me choked up. It was as near to perfection as I think I’ve ever heard. “Pieces,” another ballad and one of the rare songs from the new album The Great Unknown to make the set, was so powerful. His lively cover of “Let’s Dance” was a fitting tribute to Bowie. “Streetcorner Symphony,” with its lyrics of being there for one another, sisters and brothers of every different colour, was the most delightful way of putting all of the media muckraking to rest.

Rob’s banter with the crowd might have got him in trouble last week, but he wasn’t about to stop giving of himself that way. I love that. For me it’s the stories that make a concert. Moments like hearing about the admiration he has for his wife’s strength, and how that inspired him to write the album’s title track, “The Great Unknown.” Moments like listening to him speak about living in the moment and appreciating the beauty in it, even if it’s something as seemingly insignificant as standing around while your dog defecates, made a song like “Little Wonders” resonate a little more deeply.

There’s a line in that song that says “I cannot forget the way I feel right now.” Standing there, watching my very favourite singer, a person who has such a special place in my heart, I thought about just how I felt, how wonderful that very moment was.

You know the best thing about it all though? For the last few tours I’ve scaled back my concert activities. When I was in my late teens and early 20s, I’d always see two or three shows on Rob’s solo or Matchbox Twenty tours. Then I got older and married and reasoned I needed to be responsible, that I had other priorities in my life. I was still committed to this notion until Rob announced a State Theatre show. The allure of seeing my favourite singer in such a small venue was so strong that I snapped up tickets.

So as I watched the show last night, there was none of that sadness I usually get, because this tour’s not over for me. Tomorrow night I get to do it all again, with Rob playing a more intimate, stripped back set, so he informed us. I am so thrilled that this concert high gets to last a little longer. Rob’s going to have to pull out something special to top last night’s gig, but I’m sure he’s up to the task.

Image source: own photos

Rob Thomas Tour On Sale Soon

I’ve been bouncing off the walls this week with the news that Rob Thomas is finally touring this country again. It’s been too many years since he was here with Matchbox Twenty, and even longer since we were treated to solo shows. But finally, fans like me have some dates to start looking forward to.

Rob’s heading our way to promote The Great Unknown, a fantastic album that really should have lingered longer in the charts. Hopefully his recent promo tour can put it back in the top 50, because it really deserves to be heard. I’ve been playing it most days since its release and while my husband’s probably over it, I’m still not sick of it.

Rob seems to love a winery as much as I do, so there are a few winery shows as with his tours in the past. He’s playing traditional entertainment centres as well, but the real pick of them is bound to be his show on the steps of the Opera House. During his promo tour this week I’ve heard him talking about the fond memories he has of that Crowded House farewell show on the steps, and how consequently that gig has some real significance for him. I wouldn’t be surprised if we hear a Crowded House cover on the night.

As a member of the fan club, I’ve already got my tickets, but there’s a Live Nation presale on November 23 ahead of the general sale on November 25. To get you in the mood, here’s the charming video for his new clip “Hold On Forever.”

20 February 2016 – Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
22 February 2016 – Royal Theatre, Canberra
24 February 2016 – ‘On The Steps’ Sydney Opera House Forecourt, Sydney
27 February 2016 – Hope Estate Winery, Hunter Valley
28 February 2016 – Sirromet Wines, Mt Cotton
2 March 2016 – Kings Park & Botanic Garden, Perth
5 March 2016 – Rochford Wines, Yarra Valley
6 March 2016 – Clipsal 500, Adelaide

Rob Thomas @ Hope Estate, 13 February 2010

I have been a Rob Thomas fan for almost half my life. I have never missed a tour, so you can bet that when he announced he was bringing his Cradlesong shows Down Under I was first in the queue to get tickets.

But as the day approached I began to get a little nervous. The unsettled weather we’d experienced in the past week filled me with dread, as did the grey skies I saw as we made the drive out to Hope Estate.

But I was determined not to let anything dampen my good mood. I was seeing Rob Thomas after all. But before that, it was time for Ryan Meeking and the Few to take the stage. I was so excited to see this band after falling in love with their EP Night Owls. What a shame that after just a handful of songs those heavens opened up, putting an abrupt end to their set.

And didn’t it rain. I had never truly been soaked to the skin before, but now I know what that phrase means. The water was everywhere, in our bags, all through our clothes. Boy I felt for those poor folks in general admission who were told they couldn’t bring in chairs! But as they say, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. An experience like that sees you chatting to perfect strangers and funnily enough, still smiling.
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Rob Thomas Hooks Up with INXS

Rob Thomas has taken time out from his current promotional tour of Australia to record with INXS. The Matchbox Twenty lead singer laid down lead vocals on the INXS’ classic “Never Tear Us Apart.”

“I’m recording a version of NEVER TEAR US APART with INXS!!!,” Rob tweeted yesterday from Sydney. “I’m geeked.”

This isn’t their first crack at the song. Jon Farris joined Matchbox Twenty during their last Australian tour for performances of “Never Tear Us Apart” and “Don’t Change.”

The cover is expected to appear on INXS’ new album, which features the band’s classic songs recorded with special guest vocalists. There’s no release date as yet, but I can’t wait to hear it!

Image source: ZUMA Press

Rob Thomas Shows Australia Some Tour Love

The tour announcements that send me giddy just keep on coming. Rob Thomas touched down in Sydney for a promo tour today, and he’s already making plans for a return visit.

Rob will play wineries around the country under the Day on the Green banner with a few entertainment centre shows thrown in for good measure. He’ll be here on the back of his latest solo album, Cradlesong.

Aussie songstress Vanessa Amorosi will join the gorgeous Rob for the shows. Tickets go on sale on Friday August 7 for all shows except for Sandalford Wines, which goes on sale a few days later on August 10.

5 February 2010 – Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
7 February 2010 – Leconfield Winery, McLaren Vale
11 February 2010 – Entertainment Centre, Brisbane
13 February 2010 – Hope Estate Winery, Hunter Valley
14 February 2010 – Centennial Vineyards, Bowral
17 February 2010 – ACER Arena, Sydney
20 February 2010 – Rochford Winery, Yarra Valley
21 February 2010 – Sandalford Wines, Swan Valley

Image source: ZUMA Press