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Rain plagued New South Wales last week. But it was almost as if the weather gods knew that I was heading to Jazz in the Vines at Tyrells Winery on Saturday, because those storm clouds disappeared to reveal a glorious day. The sunshine was just the first thing that went right that day.
We arrived with just enough time to set up our deck chairs and purchase a bottle of verdelho from one of the six wineries on hand before the entertainment began. We settled in to enjoy the instrumental brilliance of Newcastle jazz outfit the Adam Miller Band. Adam Miller is a charismatic front man, open with the crowd and keen to share the stories of the tunes he’s written. With an understanding of the meaning behind the melodies, I found myself engaged from the start of his set to the end.
The dual stage set-up meant that we didn’t have to wait long for the Royal Australian Air Force band, Force 10. I expected a traditional brass sound as regimented as their uniforms, but was pleasantly surprised at their sense of fun. We happily sang along to big band classics like “World on a String” and “Under My Skin.” There’s a reason why these songs from the 20s and 30s are classics, and jazz fans young and old ate them up. The combination of booming drums, rich brass instruments, a tinkling piano and velvety smooth vocals was heavenly. Needless to say, Force 10 were an unexpected joy.
I’ve been a big fan of Australian soul legend Renee Geyer for as long as I can remember. I’ve seen countless shows over the years, but for some reason this set didn’t come quite up to par for me. Her sultry voice was in fine form, and she delivered hit after hit including “Heading in the Right Direction” and “Say I Love You.” But her snotty attitude took a little of the gloss off. Renee complained about the cameramen filming her, whining that she wasn’t dressed well enough. The cameramen complied to placate her diva behaviour, and the big screens were promptly switched off. I was close enough to the stage to see Renee, but I’m sure the people perched up the back of the vineyard didn’t appreciate her bitching. Renee could have taken a lesson from the music fans dancing freely in front of her; she really needed to lighten up and just have some fun!
Someone who does know how to have fun is James Morrison, who took to the stage with his brother John Morrison’s Swing City Big Band. Who else can get away with a fast and furious rendition of The Flintstone’s theme, complete with a little audience participation? James wowed us with jazz and Latin standards delivered with intensity and abandon. The highlight was when he took a trumpet in one hand and a trombone in the other, and took turns playing some wild one-handed licks. I guess he really does have more musical talent in one hand than I do in my entire body!
John and his band stuck around to support Glenn Shorrock. This Aussie music legend drew from his own extensive back catalogue and some classic jazz standards for an unforgettable set. Anyone who wasn’t already dancing soon found their feet when Glenn belted out the hits from Little River Band, Axiom, and the big band masters. We all knew every word to every song, and sung along enthusiastically. I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to catch my first Glenn Shorrock show. It definitely won’t be the last.
American expat Lisa Hunt closed the show with a set jam-packed with soul classics. From Motown to the disco dance halls, Lisa ensured we all had a good time. I never thought I’d see someone best Renee Geyer, but Lisa’s joy and utter abandon made this set so much more enjoyable. My feet were sore, and I was a little hot and sweaty by the close, but I left determined to make the pilgrimage to Jazz in the Vines next year.
Image source: own photos
Lisa Hunt’s performance was the hi-light of my day! She had everyone up and dancing… it was a great end to a fantastic day.
James Morrison was amazing too -The ultimate entertainer!
If Lisa & James are there next year… I will definitely be there!!!
Ditto Kylie! I’m also keeping my fingers crossed that David Campbell might come back as I missed him when he appeared the year before last
Whatever happens though I’m sure it’ll be another great day out!
I had such a great time and thought that the lead vocalist from F10 was oh so hot. I’m in love!!
I hear you Amelia – he was very easy on the eye!
Lisa Hunt “the best” not in my book kylie.
She was loud and what she sung had nothing to do with jazz.
Maybe as a support act for somebody like Lionel Ritchie, but not at Jazz in the vines.
The rest of the day was fantastic exept of course the little spat by Ms Geyer…..Grow up Renee, at your age you can’t afford to upset your fans.
Each to their own Hank. I also thought Lisa was great, but I agree with you that she didn’t play jazz. It’s kind of like when Josh Pyke appeared at the Bimbadgen Blues festival, despite him being clearly more of an acoustic folky type. Lisa would have been perfect at Lionel Richie, but she seemed to have everyone on their feet despite their jazz leanings. I guess if you didn’t like her you could at least leave early and avoid the traffic on the way out!
Lisa Hunt was definately the highlight of everyones day! She was AMAZING!! and realy got the crowd going!
I really hope she comes again this year!
I say bring back Lisa Hunt! We are still talking about her! Amazing!