Paul Kelly left a lasting impression on his audience at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney on August 30, 2023, delivering a heartfelt performance that resonated deeply with fans. The legendary folk-rock singer-songwriter, currently on a stadium tour, showcased his ability to transport listeners through storytelling, blending nostalgia with contemporary themes.
The concert opened with the sultry track “Houndstooth Dress” from his recent album, Fever Longing Still. As he moved through his extensive catalog, including classics from the 1980s like “Before Too Long” and the tender “Careless,” it became clear that Kelly’s artistry transcends the venue’s scale. His music felt equally at home in a cozy bar or a large arena, inviting the audience to share in a collective experience.
A highlight of the evening was Kelly’s new single, “Rita Wrote A Letter,” an engaging follow-up to the iconic “How To Make Gravy.” Introduced as a prequel to the original, this new song showcased a more lively and infectious tone. In contrast, “How To Make Gravy,” accompanied by slide guitar, retained its poignant and mournful spirit, drawing audible reactions from the crowd.
The most emotionally charged moment came with “They Thought I Was Asleep,” a track from his 2005 album, Foggy Highway. The song, told from a child’s perspective, captures a tense moment between parents, leaving the audience to ponder the underlying emotions of loss and betrayal. For many attendees, this performance provided a powerful revelation, highlighting Kelly’s ability to convey complex human experiences through his lyrics.
The concert also featured uplifting tracks like “To Her Door,” “Deeper Water,” and the anthemic “From Little Things Big Things Grow,” with guest performer Jess Hitchcock enhancing the experience. Despite the emotional depth of some songs, the overall atmosphere was one of healing and connection, with Kelly’s storytelling providing solace to the audience.
In contrast, another performance that same evening saw Camila Cabello at the Hordern Pavilion. While her set included well-known hits like “Havana” and “Señorita,” it failed to deliver the authenticity and connection that characterized Kelly’s performance. Despite the impressive visuals and energetic staging, Cabello’s show struggled to engage the audience on a deeper level.
The night concluded with a mixed reception for Cabello, who ended her set with the relatively uninspiring “I LUV IT.” This decision left many attendees feeling unsatisfied, contrasting sharply with the emotional resonance of Kelly’s performance.
As the Sydney Fringe Festival continues, the success of Paul Kelly’s concert serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling in music, evoking an emotional response that can leave a lasting impact on audiences.
