Arts

Concert Review: Bobby Fox – Performing the Iconic Songs of George Michael

Bobby Fox is a showman and a world class act

Bobby Fox is a showman and a world class act
5

Presented by: Markus Hamence
Reviewed: 28 September, 2024

There’s no denying it, George Michael certainly knew how to write some banging tunes. From the up-tempo party anthems through to the slow seductive numbers, his music has left a lasting impression on the world’s music industry. 

The incredibly talented Bobby Fox has crafted a wonderful show that celebrates the music and life of George Michael. Bobby’s smooth, silky voice is a match made in heaven for George Michael’s music. You could be forgiven for thinking that the catalogue of music performed in Bobby Fox = Performing the Iconic Songs of George Michael was actually written for Bobby himself. 

Fox slid between each number with ease. He drew you in during the slower numbers, and you couldn’t help but want to dance with Fox during the uptempo pieces. Fox is a very gifted performer. This really shone in his heart-wrenching version of Jesus To A Child. The emotional drive in this number really hit hard.

The entire set list has been carefully selected to showcase George Michael’s brilliant career. It included numbers from his days with Wham! through to his solo career. The performance opened with the sultry saxophone-driven Careless Whisper, and it wasn’t long before Fox had the audience grooving and eating out of the palm of his hand. His duet of I Knew You Were Waiting For Me with backing vocalist Cassie McIvor was certainly one of the many highlights of this epic celebration of music. McIvor’s voice is in a league of her own, but when blended with Fox’s voice…pure magic.

Fox was backed by a sensational band, made up of some of Adelaide’s best musicians. Adam Page on saxophones, flute and clarinet and Harry Smith on trumpet provided such a magical layer to this performance. Liam Garcia-Hardman on guitar, Damien Scott on bass and Chris Neale on drums laid down the perfect foundation for each number. Melbourne based music director and keys player Jack Earle has worked tirelessly with Fox to put together this George Michael celebration. It is clear to see why Earle is such a sought after music director. Boy can this guy play!

Closing out the performance was George Michael’s 1984 party anthem Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go which had the entire audience on their feet.

Bobby Fox is a showman and a world class act. He has a wonderful way of connecting with an audience. Hopefully we see him back in town soon.

Reviewed by Ben Stefanoff

Photo credit: Adelaide City Of Festivals

Venue: Regal Theatre
Season: Ended

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