JAMES MORRISON; THE TUGGERAH LAKES MARDI GRAS:
The threat of bad weather was no bother for ardent James Morrison fans and as a first timer I can see why. What a show!

On the stage were some pretty spectacular musicians. James of course, his brother John on drums, Blaine Whittaker on Sax, Phillip Stack on bass, James Muller on guitar and the wonderful Emma Pask doing the vocals on a few songs as well.

They varied the short performance with "A Kiss To Build A Dream On" - Emma on Vocals, "Summertime" - James on keyboard and Emma, vocals. "Greensleeves" featuring Blaine Whittaker on soprano sax and "Caravan" with the delightfully entertaining John Morrison on drums, foldbacks, concrete, anything that made a sound really. "The Battle Hymn Of The Republic" (or Glory Glory Hallelujah) started with a stirring, tingling solo by James on the keys then proceeded with John on drums and Phillip on double Bass. Although there was no vocal mic at the keyboard, James was as lost in the music as the hushed crowd.

To watch him sing as he played was truly moving. After all this time the music obviously still weaves its mysterious magic.

The show was closed with "Mac The Knife" a foot tapping, finger clicking version with James on Keys and trumpet and Emma doing a wonderful vocal rendition of this timeless classic.

Having been now well educated in the art of James and the band I will no doubt catch another show whenever I get the chance. Although the music is brilliant the antics and dialogue in between are also amusing.
The total show.