Do You Come From a Land Down Under?

Thank God for music!

I've just come back from a great week up north. The sun shone (some of the time), I caught up with friends and family, I went skating and swimming most days. Even more importantly, I went to a great gig in Manchester.

A few years ago, my brother set off to explore the world. He spent a lot of time in Australia enjoying the culture, the back packers and the stubbies. Australia is amazing! I'm lucky enough to have spent a lot of time there myself. Despite my love and affection for this wonderful country, it has to be said that their musical offerings are pretty slim. Sure they have Kylie and Natalie Imbruglia to represent the pop world, Missy Higgins to stand up for the angst ridden Indie fraternity and the Temper Trap for the edgy dance fans but what do they have to offer the rock fan? Let me let you into a little secret...Powderfinger!

My brother brought a CD back with him from Oz and I was instantly hooked. In essence, Powderfinger are good old fashioned rock. Over here, they would probably be described as a festival band.

So when Lenny asked me if I wanted a ticket to go and see them on their final UK tour there was only one answer.

Last Thursday saw Lenny, his girlfriend and I head off to the Manchester Academy. I'd had a full on week - lots of late nights and early mornings. Lenny and C were also equally tired and if we are totally honest it was a bit of an effort to drag ourselves down there.

But I'm so glad we did. From the opening track the charismatic lead singer had us in the palm of his hand. His voice is gravelly, raw and sexy. But it's not all about him, the other members of the band hold their own too. The on stage banter between them shows how comfortable they all are being up there. This band are a great live act! Even the ultra cheesy guitar solo (complete with the guitarist jumping on top of a speaker) avoided being cringe worthy.

Rock anthems and ballads blended together perfectly covering classics such as My Happiness, Waiting for the Sun and Sunsets. The crowd (who were mostly Australians or Brits who've travelled there) were very appreciative and the band were welcomed back on stage for two encores. The latter ending with a truly great rendition of Baby I Got You On My Mind. Awesome!

I'd love to tell you all to go and see this band. You certainly wouldn't regret it. Unfortunately, they won't be touring here again. I can't even urge you to go to Australia and see them there because they have decided to call it a day after 16 years together.

I'm just really glad I overcame my lethargy and got myself to Manchester. They were definitely worth it. And if they ever re-form, I'll be at the front of the queue for tickets. I recommend you join me there....