Sydney Opera House
Tuesday March 7, 2017 :
Brisbane band Moreton warmed up the crowd at the Sydney Opera House on Tuesday night. Guitarist and lead Georgia displayed beautiful vocals and told a story of singing in a choir at the Opera House as a child and the enjoyment of returning as an adult. The band displayed a solid set list with evocative lyricism and complimentary bass and drums. Definitely a great local band to watch.
Three years after his first performance at the Sydney Opera House, James Vincent McMorrow took the stage. Early keyboard issues had the singer perplexed, but with that classic Irish humour, he charmed the crowd keeping everyone onboard whilst playing with his keys.
McMorrow’s vocal range is a triumph, he is known for his falsetto, which he showcased in opening song ‘Red Dust’. I found myself surprised to see he has beautiful soulful deep tones that he showcased throughout the night. After a few solo tracks to open with which included his much-loved cover of Steve Winwood’s ‘Higher Love’, he was soon joined by backing band and vocalists to fill out some of his more vibrant songs like ‘Get Low’.
The crowd might not have been standing or dancing but rowdy cheers to opening sounds of ‘Rising Water’ and ‘Evil’ made it clear that everyone in the room was immersed in Morrow’s performance.
Going to the gig I was worried that the folk and ambient nature of his songs would lead to a lull in the set but I must confess he really held his own throughout with no checking of the clock. One of his charms is his candid in-between set conversations with himself, stating how excited he was to be at the Sydney Opera House, how he had bought a new hat for the occasion and encouraging interpretive seat dancing, it was endearing to see this more playful and boyish side of the singer/songwriter.
Highlights of the night was the poignant ballad ‘We Don’t Eat’ and ‘If I Had a Boat’, these were much-anticipated tracks from the crowd but they are favourites for a reason. McMorrow left the stage to a standing ovation and cheers, soon returning with the full backing band to finish the night with ‘Caviar’, it has progressed so much as a song from its originally recording. The song was dynamic and filled the room. James Vincent McMorrow put on a stunning performance of his combination of folk, R’n’B and electronic sounds and thoughtful lyricism; it was quite the experience for the fans, and with his enthusiasm for Australia and the venue, I am sure it won’t take him another three years to return.
Reviewer and Photographer : Amy Heycock
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