Live Review: Tina Arena, Richard Marx in Melbourne 2024
7 December 2024 at Flemington Racecourse, Australia
Review by Jeana Thomas
Photography by Jeana Thomas Photography
Foreword by Sheldon Ang
It was a point in time when ballads of love-struck souls and broken hearts ruled the airwaves. With the magic of lyrical manifestation, we begged for divine intervention, hoping that heaven would help our hearts. If we could, we would have written songs and painted portraits throughout the endless summer nights, dreaming of the day we would be in their arms once again. Yet, we never walked away, we were brave instead as we continued to be free like a bird, running alongside horses by the surf that was brighter than a diamond ever dared. For many, the 80s and 90s remain as the most frequented destinations of our lives…
The latest festival by Face to Face Touring promised a multitude of nostalgic sing-alongs, thanks to a star studded lineup with headliners Australian songstress Tina Arena and Grammy Award-winning singer songwriter Richard Marx, leading a festival fuelled with bangers from the 80s and 90s, backed by the legendary Daryl Braithwaite, Kate Ceberano, Southern Sons and 1927.
According to our Melbourne correspondent Jeana Thomas, it was a phenomenal festival that was greased with classics.
Tina Arena’s performance at the Mornington Racecourse was a stunning reminder of why she holds such a cherished place in the hearts of Australian music lovers. With a career that spans decades, Arena’s blend of unmatched vocal power and captivating stage presence continues to dazzle audiences. Her show was a seamless fusion of nostalgia and musical mastery, showcasing not only her timeless hits, but also the depth of her artistry as it has evolved over the years.
From the moment she graced the stage, dressed in black and her hair up with a beautiful clip, Arena’s voice commanded attention, instantly taking the crowd on a journey back to the 90s. Her iconic songs, including Heaven Help My Heart, Wasn’t It Good and Sorrento Moon, filled the venue with a deep sense of longing and empowerment. These tracks, etched in the collective memory of her fans, hit with the same emotional weight they did when they first captured the airwaves. Among the standout moments was a haunting rendition of Chains, a song that everyone was waiting for. In the setting of the Mornington Racecourse, Arena infused the song with new emotional depth, giving it a fresh, yet familiar intensity that resonated deeply with the crowd.
Her voice has only grown more refined over time. It’s a rare gift to watch an artist’s technique improve with age, but Arena’s vocal delivery continues to impress with its versatility. Whether soaring through powerful high notes or delivering softer, more delicate passages, her control is flawless. During Be A Man, she effortlessly shifted between sweeping highs and soulful, grounded lows, leaving the audience in awe of her vocal range. What truly sets Arena apart is her ability to inject every note with deep emotional resonance.
The venue allowed for a level of connection that transformed the performance from a concert into a shared experience. Arena spoke candidly with the audience, sharing stories from her career and offering insights into the journey that shaped her as an artist. These moments of vulnerability and honesty created a sense of closeness that enveloped the crowd. Her rapport with the audience was warm and engaging, making everyone feel as though they were part of something special.
Arena’s band played a crucial role in this intimate exchange. Their musicianship was impeccable, offering a rich, dynamic sound that perfectly complemented her voice. Their deep understanding of Arena’s style allowed her voice to take centre stage while their support added a layer of texture and depth to the performance.
One of the most striking aspects of Arena’s performance was the genuine emotional connection she fostered with her audience. She wasn’t just singing; she was engaging in a shared moment of music and memory. Her smile, her laughter and her natural charm made the performance feel less like a show and more like a heartfelt gathering.
Tina Arena’s performance was a breathtaking testament to her unparalleled talent, leaving the audience spellbound as her powerful voice echoed long after the final note, reminding us all why she remains an iconic force in the world of music.
Richard Marx gives everyone a masterclass in pop-rock storytelling, blending his signature heartfelt ballads with lively, crowd-pleasing anthems. Known for his string of hits in the late 80s and 90s, Marx’s career has proven to be both enduring and ever-evolving. His performance was a powerful
Lreminder of why his music continues to resonate deeply with fans across generations, seamlessly blending nostalgia with fresh musical exploration.
The evening opened with Believe in Me a soaring anthem of hope and self-discovery, with every note carrying the weight of vulnerability and the quiet strength that comes from trusting in one’s own potential and a great upbeat anthem that immediately energised the crowd. Marx’s commanding stage presence set the tone for the night, proving that his live shows are far more than a trip down memory lane. The song’s punchy rhythm and catchy hook allowed Marx to effortlessly connect with the audience, while hinting at the emotional depth that would soon follow.
As the night progressed, the crowd was swept into a wave of nostalgia with timeless hits like Endless Summer Nights and Should’ve Known Better. The latter had fans singing along in unison, capturing the warmth and romantic energy of the 90s. What made these familiar tracks so powerful live was Marx’s ability to relive them, not simply perform them. His emotional investment in the lyrics made it clear that, despite the years that have passed, he still finds deep meaning in these songs.
While the evening offered plenty of the crowd-pleasing hits, it was the more reflective moments that truly stood out. Angelia, a tender ballad, allowed Marx to showcase his growth as an artist. The intimate delivery of the song was both soft and powerful, pulling the audience into its emotional narrative. His voice retained the vulnerability and sweetness that marked his earlier work, continuing to evoke a profound emotional response.
Perhaps the most striking aspect of Marx’s performance was his voice. Despite the years of touring and recording, it remains exceptional, able to hit the soaring high notes of his classics while carrying more texture and depth. On songs like Take This Heart, his tender delivery in the verses was heart-wrenching, while the chorus built with passionate intensity. Marx’s vocal control throughout the show proves effortless for him, a testament to his artistry, transitioning effortlessly between powerful choruses and intimate verses.
His stage presence also contributed significantly to the evening’s success. His interactions with the crowd were warm and genuine. His humour and gratitude for the audience’s loyalty created a sense of camaraderie.
Accompanying Marx was a talented band that provided the perfect backdrop for his vocals. The musicianship was tight and dynamic, with a balance of melodic solos and rhythmic support that allowed Marx’s voice to take centre stage. Their seamless collaboration added depth to each song, ensuring a fresh and vibrant sound throughout the performance.
His performance was a captivating blend of nostalgia and raw emotion, as his timeless hits resonated with the crowd, leaving a lasting impression that proved his music still holds the power to connect hearts, decades later.
1927’s performance was a nostalgic journey for fans of Australian rock, showcasing both their iconic hits and musical evolution. Kicking off with To Love Me, the band immediately swept the crowd into a wave of nostalgia, with lead vocalist Eric Weideman’s voice still as powerful and emotive as ever. The energy didn’t dip, with crowd favourites like You’ll Never Know keeping the audience engaged.
The setlist balanced classic anthems with deeper cuts, allowing the band to explore different musical textures. Tracks like The Story Never Ends brought a more introspective side of 1927 to the forefront, offering emotional depth that complemented their upbeat hits.
Weideman’s stage presence was magnetic. The tight musicianship of the band, with standout guitar work from Cameron McGlinchey and solid rhythm support from bassist David McGhee and drummer Simon Hosford, kept the performance dynamic. The band’s ability to refresh older tracks while staying true to their roots was a highlight.
Their performance was a powerful reminder of their enduring legacy in Australian rock, blending nostalgia with fresh creativity. It was a night full of energy, emotional depth and a strong connection between the band and their audience, proving that their music continues to resonate across generations.
Kate Ceberano came out in a beautiful black dress and a small vest, brilliantly showcasing her enduring talent and versatility. With a career spanning decades, Ceberano effortlessly blended pop, jazz, soul, R&B and even threw in some reggae at the end, so everyone had a great time. Her set kicked off with her iconic hit Pash, setting an energetic tone as the crowd immediately connected with her vibrant presence.
Kate renditions of Heart of Glass, Love Is Alive, and I’m Talking were vibrant highlights of her performance. She brought a fresh, soulful twist to Blondie’s Heart of Glass, infusing it with her own dynamic energy while still capturing its catchy, disco-inspired essence. Love Is Alive, with its rich melody, allowed Ceberano to showcase her vocal range, delivering the emotional depth of the song with power and grace. In I’m Talking, she embraced the upbeat tempo and playful rhythm, adding her signature flair to the track, making it a fun and engaging moment that resonated with the audience. Each song demonstrated Ceberano’s ability to reinterpret and energise classics while maintaining her unique vocal style.
Her stage presence was magnetic and fun. Her candid storytelling and humorous anecdotes created a genuine connection with the audience, drawing them into her performance. Kate Ceberano’s band members were a talented and versatile group, seamlessly supporting her with tight rhythms, soulful grooves, and intricate arrangements that enhanced the depth and dynamism of the performance.
Her performance was a celebration of her remarkable career, blending nostalgia with innovation. Her ability to connect emotionally with the audience and the sheer versatility of her voice made it a show to remember, cementing her place as one of Australia’s finest musical talents.
Southern Sons’ set was a powerful reminder of their enduring legacy in Australian rock. Formed in the early ’90s, the band’s melodic sound and introspective lyrics shaped the Australian music scene and their recent show proved their relevance today. Opening with the anthemic “Always & Ever,” the crowd was instantly swept up in the energy of the band’s uplifting, yet emotional sound. Garry Frost’s rich, soulful vocals were captivating, blending warmth with raw emotion as he connected deeply with the audience.
Highlights like “Hold Me In Your Arms” resonated with fans old and new, balancing optimism with themes of perseverance. Their musicianship was equally impressive, drummer Mark Arnold and bassist John Williams laid a rock-solid foundation, while guitarist David Wall’s solos added depth and intensity.
The band’s effortless blending of rock, pop and emotional depth created a performance that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Southern Sons’ ability to craft songs that resonate universally, combined with their engaging stage presence, ensured this show would remain a highlight for fans, reaffirming their place in Australian rock history.
Seeing Daryl Braithwaite perform at Mornington Racecourse was an unforgettable moment for me. The legendary Australian singer, known for his powerful voice and enduring presence, commanded the stage with an infectious enthusiasm that captivated the crowd from start to finish. With a career spanning decades, Braithwaite effortlessly wove together the familiar nostalgia of his 80s and 90s hits with an undeniable sense of timelessness, proving his place as one of Australia’s musical icons.
Opening with the high-energy anthem “Howzat,” Braithwaite immediately set the tone for the evening, his voice soaring over the audience as they sang along in unison. The song’s infectious rhythm had everyone rush to the front of the stage and it became clear that this would be a set of celebration and connection. Following that, “Rise” offered a perfect contrast, its soaring chorus and uplifting message resonating with a sense of optimism that filled the air.
As the set unfolded, the crowd was treated to a collection of Braithwaite’s most beloved tracks, each one a reminder of his remarkable ability to blend rock, pop and balladry into timeless hits. “Days” brought a more reflective mood, allowing his rich, emotive voice to shine in a moment of vulnerability that was deeply felt by the audience.
Of course, it was the iconic “Horses” that stole the show, with fans erupting in ecstatic cheers as the first notes rang out. The sing-along that followed was nothing short of a communal celebration, a testament to the song’s enduring impact on Australian music culture.
Braithwaite’s performance showed us how music can unite, uplift, and inspire. His ability to connect with the crowd, both through his timeless songs, humour and his heartfelt stage presence, made for a night that will be remembered for years to come.
Sheldon Ang Media would like to thank Menard PR, Face to Face Touring and the Artists for the Accreditation.
About the Writer and Photographer: Originally hailing from Western Australia, Jeana Thomas now thrives in the vibrant city of Melbourne. Amidst the hustle of her role in a prominent teaching hospital, she also navigates the dynamic world of entrepreneurship as the owner of a medical transcription company. Beyond her professional endeavours, Jeana finds solace and joy in the rhythm of music, the allure of travel and the artistry of photography, with a particular passion for wildlife photography. She embraces the spirit of festivals, the excitement of sports, and theatre, the laughter-inducing antics of comedy, and the electrifying atmosphere of live music performances. She cherishes each experience as a chance to immerse herself fully in life’s rich tapestry
About Sheldon Ang Media: Sheldon Ang Media (est. May 2022) has been accredited to more than 130 of the hottest acts including Coldplay (Perth),Taylor Swift (ERAS Tour in Sydney), KISS, Iron Maiden, RHCP, P!NK and The Kid LAROI with reviews shared by the likes of Belinda Carlisle, UB40, Delta Goodrem, The Wiggles and Toni Childs on social media. The founder has interviewed rockers Suzi Quatro, Ace Frehley (KISS), John Steel (The Animals), Frank Ferrer (Guns N Roses), Phil X (Bon Jovi), Andrew Farris (INXS) plus over 70 artists. SAM is also a music journalist on the Triple M Radio network.
