Tag Archives: Natasha Wyborn

Live Review: The Waifs at The Palais Theatre – 3rd June 2023

Review by Natasha Wyborn
Photos by David Jackson – shotz by jackson

The Waifs ‘Up All Night’ – 20th Anniversary Tour

Saturday night saw a welcome return to the band’s adopted base of Melbourne, and now playing to a sell-out crowd of loyal fans in St Kilda; it was like coming home. The tour highlights the twentieth anniversary of one of Australian music’s greatest all-time albums. ‘Up All Night’ achieved double platinum status and won four ARIA Awards, no mean feat for a folk band from Albany in Western Australia. The show was an opportunity to play the album, an instant hit with fans.

Up All Night was the fourth album from the Australian Folk Mainstays. The trio comprises sisters Vikki Thorn, Donna Simpson and Josh Cunningham. Taking the stage, Simpson said this is a ‘Celebration of music. Feel free to sing along; that is exactly what the crowd did from start to finish. Opening the set with ‘Bridal Train’ from the 2004 same-titled EP. The song is not the band’s biggest hit but remains a crowd favourite. 

‘Shiny Apple’ followed by the album ‘A Brief History Live’ highlighted the distinctive three-clap intro by Simpson. Even after all these years, the lyrics are still haunting. The chorus of masses sang carefully, not to out sing Simpson as she held centre stage. 

Additional band members were introduced, long term friends Ben Franz on bass and David Ross MacDonald on drums arrived to complete the evening’s lineup. 

‘ Something’s Coming ‘ from the 2017 album ‘Ironbark; highlighted Thorn on Harmonica. All band members looked comfortable from the start exchanging banter.

What happened next was why the audience and loyal fans made the journey—hearing ‘Up All Night’ and playing the album in order was pure genius allowing the audience to know what was coming. I remember buying this CD when it was first released; I played it repeatedly and loved every song. Like all The Waifs albums, the song writing was shared between all members, a true meaning of collaboration. At the time, much like now, I was captivated by the freshness of this trio, the ability to add a stage in their life and allow the listener to jump in and share the experience.

The cover photo from the album provided a perfect backdrop to the evening ahead. ‘The lighthouse on the album cover is located at Cape Shank in Victoria’, Cunningham told the audience. It was clear from the start all members have lost nothing over the years, and all continue to bring something to the table. In between songs, the band gave insights into some of the lyrics, including.

‘London Still’ where Simpson lets the audience in on the song’s background. “People think this song is about me living in London for a long period, and I was there for four days, hatted the place and wanted to come home”. 

‘Lighthouse’ Cunningham told the audience the inspiration for this song was a fantasy about running away to own a lighthouse. A confessed introvert that liked his own company, it seemed like a good idea at the time. Although unachievable, Cunningham highlighted the ‘beautiful thing about being a songwriter is your dreams live on in a song.’ 

‘Since I’ve Been Around’ was Penned by Cunningham about his hometown in Moruya, NSW. The song delivered passionately highlighted the craftsmanship of one of Australia’s superior songwriters; Cunningham’s face showed signs of emotion, and the music still resonates with him after all these years. Thorn added the story of supporting Bob Dylan on his 2003 American Tour at the song’s end. At the soundcheck, Dylan said he ‘Liked That One’ referring to Cunninghams’ music, a better accolade I doubt you could not get anywhere.  

‘Three Down’, written by Vikki Thorn, talks about life on the road in America and the confinements of working, travelling and living with members over a long period. 

At the album’s completion, the band took the opportunity to play the audience some new music. Simpson excitedly disclosed to the audience, “I have written a song. It’s not a break-up song”, sharing her love for her new partner, Curly. The song title references her lover’s occupation working three shifts on and three off. ‘Swing’ is a song that undoubtedly has a place on the new album. ‘Heart in The Game’ could easily be sung at a local footy game or even the MCG. 

After a brief break, the band returned for a two-song encore

‘Take It In’ is a song reflecting on Cable Beach while the band were in Melbourne, featuring vocals by Missy Higgins. ‘Ironbark’, a crowd favourite, was the perfect ending to the night.

I cannot end this review without mentioning the special guests for the evening. 

Missy Higgins. On any other occasion, she is the headliner; however, on Saturday, through respect and admiration, she returned to play with a band that was influential in her career during the early days. 

Playing keyboards and guitar Higgins gave an insight into her career, songs and profoundly personal life, including a still-raw marriage breakdown, especially over the past twelve months. Her song list was interesting, returning to 2003 and playing tracks from her first EP. Higgins was open about her love and respect for The Waifs; this is obvious as these days, she plays undercard to no one. There was a clear reflection about a time after finishing her supporting set; she would sit, watch the band, and sell her then EP collecting names for her ever-growing mailing list. 

Her set included two brand songs, each filled with rawness; you could feel the emotion in the room. The songs had no names yet, fresh from the heart to the pen, then transferred onto the keyboard; I felt lucky to be in the audience for this; I think we all ‘Grieve for your love’, Missy.

Higgins gave insight into a time living in her parent’s garage; at only nineteen years of age, there was love, a relationship shared by both her sister and herself and the conflict that pursued. A close family and, as a result, an apology in music ‘The Special Two was written.

‘The Cactus that Found the Beat’ is an original song with a jazz feel written when Higgins was in year twelve. Accompanied by her brother David Higgins was a real treat to watch.

Jeff Lang was once described as ‘Australia’s Best Blues and Roots Musician. On Saturday night, you could easily see why. Lang’s guitar echoed around the theatre. Lang introduced his main role of the evening was to ‘Warm up the air’ for the headliners, but his role was so much more. Playing acoustic in its traditional way or as a slide guitar, Lang commanded attention and left me wanting to see him play a complete set and his own show. 

As this tour continues throughout Australia, the number of shows continues to grow. At last count, it was 44 and growing. It was worth the three-hour drive to sit and listen to three multi-talented musicians; going by crowd numbers, I am not alone in this opinion. 

Setlist 
Bridal Train, Shiny Apple, Something’s Coming , Fisherman’s Daughter, Nothing New, London Still, Lighthouse, Flesh & Blood, Highway One, Since I Been Around, 4th Floor, Rescue, 3 Down, Sweetness, Up All Night, Go, Swing, Miles, Heart In The Game,

Encore
Take It In, Ironbark

Live Review: Don McLean at Palais Theatre, Melbourne – 29 April 2023

Review by Natasha Wyborn

Don McLean Live in Concert 
Palais Theatre Melbourne Australia
Saturday, 29th April 2023. 

Don Mclean has been announcing through his extensive 19-date Australian tour that this would be his last. On Saturday night, it was Melbourne’s turn to experience the 77-year-old American troubadour’s presence and what better venue to see him than the Palais Theatre.

Continue reading Live Review: Don McLean at Palais Theatre, Melbourne – 29 April 2023

Live Review + Photos : One Electric Day at Victor Harbour – 5 November 2022

Reviewer Natasha Wyborn
Photos by David Jackson – shotz by jackson

One Electric Day 
Kent Reserve Victor Harbour South Australia
Saturday, November 5, 2022

Continue reading Live Review + Photos : One Electric Day at Victor Harbour – 5 November 2022

Live Review : KINGS OF LEON at Mildura Sporting Precinct – 29 October 2022

Reviewer Natasha Wyborn 

Kings of Leon Set The Town of Mildura on Fire 
29th October 2022
Mildura Sporting Complex, Victoria Australia

Mildura, located in rural Victoria, was the venue for Kings of Leon’s opening show on their long-awaited 2022 Australian tour. Over 10,000 people filled the newly opened complex to hear the band, natives from Tennessee. Comprising of brothers Caleb, Jared, Nathan Followill, and their cousin Matthew Followill. The band played a 25-song set that featured songs from their impressive 20-year career and eight-album catalogue. 

Continue reading Live Review : KINGS OF LEON at Mildura Sporting Precinct – 29 October 2022

Live Review : Adam Thompson Performs Queens Bohemian Rhapsody Soundtrack at Ulumbarra Theatre Bendigo – 8 February 2020

Review by Natasha Wyborn

Adam Thompson Performs Queens Bohemian Rhapsody Soundtrack at Ulumbarra Theatre Bendigo – 8 February 2020 Photographer: David Jackson

He will, He will, rock you.

Continue reading Live Review : Adam Thompson Performs Queens Bohemian Rhapsody Soundtrack at Ulumbarra Theatre Bendigo – 8 February 2020

Live Review : Red Hot Summer Tour at Old Mount Gambier Gaol – 5th January 2020

Review by Natasha Wyborn

Red Hot Summer Tour at Old Mount Gambier Gaol – 5th January 2020 Photographer: David Jackson

With a stellar lineup  comprising Hunters & Collectors, James Reyne, The Living End, The Angels, The Baby Animals, Killing Heidi and Boom Crash Opera the Red Hot Summer tour hit South Australian shores on Sunday. Playing to yet another sell out crowd off around 3,000 people. The audience demographic was mixed with a heavy focus on the 50 plus bracket who enjoyed a drink and settled in for an afternoon of fine music and memories. With the rest of the country sweltering in 40 plus heat the temperature dropped rapidly to a chilly 18 degrees by late afternoon. With old brick work and rusty razor wire from the days gone by as a backdrop the crowd was waiting for the fun to begin.

Continue reading Live Review : Red Hot Summer Tour at Old Mount Gambier Gaol – 5th January 2020

Live Review : Ian Moss at Palais Theatre, Melbourne – 16 November 2019

Review by Natasha Wyborn

Ian Moss at Palais Theatre, Melbourne – 16 November 2019 Photographer: David Jackson

For those of us lucky enough to have lived it the first time around it’s hard to believe it’s been 30 years since the release of the ‘Matchbook’ album. On Saturday night at the Palais Theatre in Melbourne the near full house got a chance to relive the memories live again. We may all be a little older but Ian Moss has lost nothing in momentum or ability to engage and play an electric guitar like an extension of his own anatomy.

Continue reading Live Review : Ian Moss at Palais Theatre, Melbourne – 16 November 2019

Live Review : Mirusia & The Original Seekers At Melbourne Recital Centre – 2nd November 2019

Review by Natasha Wyborn

Mirusia & The Original Seekers At Melbourne Recital Centre – 2nd November 2019 Photographer: David Jackson

It’s hard to believe the act I was witnessing in 2019 originally formed way back in the early 60’s. The Seekers have been a part of Australian music culture for close to 60 years. Formed as a folk quartet in Melbourne in 1962 the band has travelled the work and left its mark alongside some of the biggest bands of the 60’s. To put The Seekers popularity into perspective at the height of their career the seekers shared the same bill with The Rolling Stones and the Beatles whilst drawing an estimated crowd of 200,000 to the Sydney Myer Music Bowl. The original lead singer Judith Durham has left the quartet however the remaining three original members Athol Guy, Keith Potger and Bruce Woodley continue to delight fans both within Australia and abroad.

Continue reading Live Review : Mirusia & The Original Seekers At Melbourne Recital Centre – 2nd November 2019

Live Review : Kris Kristofferson at Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo – 21st September 2019

Review by Natasha Wyborn

On Saturday night in front of a full house in Bendigo Victoria a packed house got to witness one of the last remaining treasures in country music. Hitting the stage with the enthusiasm of a man considerably younger than his true age, Kris Kristofferson started what can only be considered by any standards a marathon set. Playing almost 2 hours with a traditional intermission in between. It’s hard to believe it has been over 50 years since his debut album. A lot has happened during this time with Kristofferson maintaining a consistent reputation as one of country’s music’s great troubadour’s and performers.

Continue reading Live Review : Kris Kristofferson at Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo – 21st September 2019

Review : Melbourne Guitar Show 2019 at Caulfield Racecourse

Review by Natasha Wyborn

www.australianmusician.com.au

Melbourne Guitar Show 2019 at Caulfield Racecourse Photographer: David Jackson

Caulfield, known worldwide for its racetrack, was overrun with guitar players, enthusiasts and fans alike over the weekend. The venue gave way for what has to be one of the best guitar playing line-ups in the festivals history. The event held under complete cover in the members grandstand drew fans and players alike to two days of guitar mania. From the moment you entered the building you were greeted by 50,000 watts of pure guitar shredding. This area of course was the trade component of the show where budding guitarists got to play and talk everything from the classics of Gibson and Fender and numerous independent and personal guitar makers who were on show. But it didn’t end there. Amplifiers with some wicked pedals and everything accessory wise to make even the most professional player salivate. All stall holders were more than generous with their time and experience. Over $75,000 was paid out for the most expensive guitar of the weekend confirming build the right instrument and they will buy.

Continue reading Review : Melbourne Guitar Show 2019 at Caulfield Racecourse

Live Review : Belinda Carlisle + 1927 at Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo – 1 March 2019

Review by Natasha Wyborn

Belinda Carlisle entertained a sold out crowd at Ulumbarra Theatre Bendigo on Friday night. Currently touring Australia celebrating the 30th Anniversary of her 1989 world wide smash album Runaway Horses.
Continue reading Live Review : Belinda Carlisle + 1927 at Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo – 1 March 2019

Live Review : Apia Good Times at Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo – 26 May 2018

Review by Natasha Wyborn

Some may have started as far back as the 60’s but the fab 5 that hit the stage at Bendigo on Saturday night could show todays youth a thing or two. On parade were ARIA Hall of Famers, international hit makers, a former TV Week Queen of Pop and countless number one hits. APIA truly brings songs of a lifetime to the modern era. Each artist Brian Cadd, Marcia Hines, Russell Morris, Leo Sayer and John Paul Young a star in their own right. Another interesting point all artists came up on Australian stages learning their craft in front of an increasing live audience. Countdown was paramount to all artists career, throughout the concert Molly Meldrum was referred to fondly.
Continue reading Live Review : Apia Good Times at Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo – 26 May 2018

Live Review : Groovin the Moo – Bendigo, VIC – Saturday 5 May 2018

Review by Natasha Wyborn

Another resounding success for the Groovin The Moo machine as it landed in Bendigo on Saturday. The day started well with unusual warm weather and a bumper crowd all 22,000 of them confirming another sell out to this ever increasingly popular festival. Although predominantly catering for the teens to twenties there was also a fair bit of grey in the crowd validating the popularity of diversity in the lineup, essentially there was something on the bill for everyone.
Continue reading Live Review : Groovin the Moo – Bendigo, VIC – Saturday 5 May 2018

Live Review: Jimmy Barnes at Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo VIC – 29 April 2018

Review by Natasha Wyborn

Jimmy Barnes at Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo VIC – 29 April 2018
Photographer: David Jackson

Continue reading Live Review: Jimmy Barnes at Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo VIC – 29 April 2018

Live Review: Kip Moore + Lee Brice + Charlie Worsham at Forum, Melbourne – 25 April 2018

Review by Natasha Wyborn

Kip Moore at Forum, Melbourne – 25 April 2018
Photographer: David Jackson

Playing in Melbourne central on ANZAC day 2018 were two of American country music’s hardest working artists. Lee Brice and Kip Moore both men well known in Australia joined forces to give fans nothing short of a powerhouse performance at the Forum.
Continue reading Live Review: Kip Moore + Lee Brice + Charlie Worsham at Forum, Melbourne – 25 April 2018