Sufjan Stevens‘ Melbourne session at Hamer Hall was simply epic. You didn’t want it to end, you left wanting more and listened to him on your way home. His Hamer Hall sessions sold out in quick time and we counted ourselves lucky to be there. The couple next to us admitted they had snared tickets for the following night as well. Yep, Melbourne was excited about his arrival and after a two hour set none left disappointed.
Ngaiire, a local Australian-based performer did a stellar job of warming up the crowd with her smooth blend of soul. I look forward to seeing them grow over time. After a solid 30 minutes, it was time for the main act and the crowd was ready for Sufjan’s songs of death.
I wondered how many people would make it through without tearing up. If you weren’t aware, Stevens’ latest album, which he is showcasing on his Australian tour, is dedicated to his mother and generally filled with songs about death. There’s the occasional lighter ballad but most of the evening is filled with Sufjan-style sorrow and haunt.
Live, he doesn’t beat around the bush, and likes to have fun with the audience. The night was end-to-end song with no interlude and, as far as the crowd was concerned, hit after hit. The spectacle of show shines through to the end with an intense light and sound show that will leave even the most seasoned festival goer gasping in awe.
If you’re in the crowd during and enjoy your time make sure to give him a decent ovation. He might just come out and play an entire extra hour for you…
Keep an eye on Sufjan’s and Ngaiire’s websites for further tour details.
– Rukmal
Co-founder of The Plus Ones, Rukmal lives and breathes events.
