Live Review: Crowded House – Gravity Stairs Tour in Perth 2024
29th of December 2024 at Kings Park and Botanic Garden in Perth, Western Australia.
By Krystal Galloway
Photography by Isabelle Haubrich (Bel & Cal Photography)
Last night, Perth had the first privilege of witnessing Crowded House at their Gravity Stairs Tour of Australia at the breathtaking Kings Park and Botanic Garden. On a warm night under a smoky amber sky, families and friends settled in with picnic blankets, surrounded by towering trees and a gentle buzz of anticipation. Around me, people were guessing what song might spark the night. There was electricity in the air, a shared excitement that only a band like Crowded House can inspire.
Just before 8 p.m., the band entered the stage carrying lanterns, their warm glow setting a magical tone as they hung them delicately on their mic stands. Neil Finn leaned into the mic and launched into “Mean to Me,” and the crowd roared in delight. He stopped playing to get the crowd to sing back the iconic line, “What d’ya know?” From that moment, it was clear this wasn’t just a performance; it was a celebration.
“Greetings, good people of Perth and beyond,” Neil addressed us warmly. “We’ll have to turn the lights off because we’re camping here in Kings Park!” His humour set the tone for a night that felt intimate and deeply connected.
The setlist was an impeccable mix of classics and fresh material. Fan favourites like “Fall at Your Feet” transformed the audience into a choir, with Neil asking, “Will you sing with me?” and the crowd joyfully responding. Moments like this felt like a gentle embrace, uniting thousands of voices.
The band also showcased newer tracks, including a hauntingly beautiful “Night Song,” introduced by Neil as a reflection on those quiet 3 a.m. thoughts. It was a moment of stillness amidst the energy, reminding us of the emotional depth in Crowded House’s music. Another highlight was the release-day performance of their latest song, “The Other.” Neil reflected on the energy of playing it live for the first time on the tour’s opening night. The new material fit seamlessly alongside the classics, offering a glimpse into the band’s evolving artistry.
The chemistry on stage was tremendous. Neil’s wit and charisma kept the atmosphere light, at one point asking, “Are there reptiles here in Kings Park?” The audience’s enthusiastic “Yes!” sparked laughter as he joked about their sleeping arrangements on the tour.
Neil Finn’s voice hasn’t aged a day, and his sons, Liam and Elroy, brought a fresh energy to the performance. Nick Seymour on bass was as sharp and charismatic as ever, and Mitchell Froom’s keys added richness to every song. Watching the interplay between band members was like watching a family jam session, natural, unforced, and filled with joy.
Songs like “Don’t Dream It’s Over” had the crowd swaying, lost in the music. The understated instrumentation allowed the lyrics and harmonies to shine, every note played straight from the heart. Meanwhile, “It’s Only Natural” had the crowd bouncing to the beat, singing along to the familiar lyrics joyfully.
A moving rendition of Split Enz’s “Message to My Girl,” written by Neil during his time in the legendary band, gave fans a heartfelt moment. Warm applause showed how beloved Neil’s entire body of work is. Another Split Enz classic, “I Got You,” excited the audience later in the concert. Its distinctive opening riff lifted everyone to their feet, clapping and shouting joyfully.
After a seamless performance, the band returned for an encore that felt more like a celebration than an ending. Opening with “Weather With You,” the crowd was immediately on their feet again. The night reached its emotional peak as the first notes of “Better Be Home Soon” began to play. After a moment of solemn quiet, the audience joined in for one last passionate singalong. It was the perfect way to end the night, a reminder of music’s power to unite people.
As the final applause echoed through Kings Park, the weight of the moment lingered. Crowded House have given us more than just a concert, they’ve created a shared memory that will last for years to come.
If you’re lucky enough to catch them on this tour, don’t hesitate. Settle in under the stars, let the music wash over you, and prepare for an unforgettable night with one of the most iconic bands of our time.
Crowded House are playing in Perth again tonight and tomorrow before heading across Australia in their sold-out tour. New shows have been added with limited tickets through Live Nation Australia
Sheldon Ang Media would like to thank Revolution Per Minute, Publicity Live Nation Australia, Mellen Events and Crowded House for the media accreditation.
About the Writer: Krystal Galloway lives and breathes music, finding her happy place in the sea of fans who come together to experience the magic of live performances. After attending her first concert—Justin Timberlake—her enthusiasm turned into a lifelong hobby. She has since seen over 100 of her favorite acts, including global superstars like KISS, Eminem, Foo Fighters, Blink 182, Usher, Nelly, Ne-Yo and Chris Brown, along with Australian favorites like The Screaming Jets, The Angels, Birds of Tokyo, Cold Chisel, and Bliss & Eso—just to name a few—all in her home city of Western Australia. With this extensive concert experience, Krystal has developed a deep appreciation for the artistry behind live performances, gaining a unique perspective on the dedication and energy that goes into every show.
About the Photographer: Isabelle Haubrich of Brazil is a Photographer based in Perth, Western Australia, specialising in live music and wedding photography. With a keen eye for capturing raw emotion and energy, Isabelle has a unique ability to tell compelling stories through her lens, whether it’s the vibrant atmosphere of a concert or the intimate moments of a wedding day. Drawing inspiration from her diverse cultural background, she infuses her work with passion and creativity, making her a sought-after photographer in local music. She’s a Photography graduate and a Marketing & Events Coordinator at Camera Electronics
About Sheldon Ang Media: Sheldon Ang Media (est. May 2022) have been accredited to more than 130 of the hottest acts including Taylor Swift (ERAS Tour in Sydney), Coldplay (Perth), Backstreet Boys, KISS, Iron Maiden, RHCP, P!NK and Robbie Williams with reviews shared by the likes of Belinda Carlisle, UB40, Delta Goodrem, The Wiggles and Toni Childs on social media. The founder hsa interviewed rockers Suzi Quatro (pictured below), Ace Frehley (KISS), John Steel (The Animals), Frank Ferrer (Guns N Roses), Phil X (Bon Jovi), Andrew Farris (INXS) plus over 70 artists. He’s also a contributor on Triple M Radio as a music journalist.
