20 April 2013 (gig)
21 April 2013
One thing is for sure, Bryan Adams delivered exactly what the fans ordered. Adams whipped the crowd into a frenzy at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne, VIC, Australia on Saturday night as he belted out a non-stop array of hits over two hours.
In 2011, Adams treated his fans to an intimate “Bare Bones” theatre tour, which received rave reviews. However, this is Adams’ first arena performance in Australia since 2005, and it was evident he was thrilled to be back on those shores with his band. Current band members include Keith Scott (lead guitar, backing vocals), Mickey Curry (drums), Norm Fisher (bass), and Gary Breit (keyboards).
Adams, 53, announced to the crowd that this tour was a belated celebration marking 20 years since “Walking Up The Neighbourhood” was released. He certainly has a lot to celebrate, with a total of sixteen albums under his belt and numerous awards, including being inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2011. Adams’ talent is undeniable and the Canadian rocker has come a long way from his early days as a dishwasher.
His warmth radiated as he interacted with the crowd throughout the night, asking them to sing along with him. As he held the microphone out to crowd, they obligingly sang along to “Cuts Like A Knife” and “Heaven”. Fans were taken on a walk down memory lane with old favourites such as “Run To You” and “Can’t Stop This Thing We've Started”.
At one point, Adams asked for the lights to be turned on as he scanned the crowd for a singer to accompany him. Pharmacy assistant, Janine, was selected from the crowd and performed , “Baby When You're Gone” alongside him. Adams' sultry voice has a way of making people do as he says.
For me, the highlight was “Summer of 69”, and I wasn’t alone. Almost the entire arena was up on their feet singing along with Adams. This song has a way of taking you on a journey, even if you weren't alive in the aforementioned summer.
Towards the end of the night, the band bid their farewell, leaving Adams on the stage to perform “Straight From The Heart”. Watching him play the guitar and harmonica so effortlessly is a clear indication as to why he’s had sustained longevity and appeal as an artist.
Overall, Adams was flawless, and knows how to reel the crowd in with his endearing spirit, and stellar vocalization.
