Presented by Rob Pippan Productions
Reviewed 28th February 2020
Richard Clapton is one of Australia’s most prolific songwriters and performers. Since the early 60s he has played solo, and with a variety of bands, in a range of genres, around the world. With no sign of slowing down, he still tours regularly both home and overseas.
Opening for Clapton last night was local artist Laura Hill. An exquisite Indie Folk singer-songwriter, she delivered a beautiful set for half an hour. If you haven’t seen this musician, try to catch her.
Clapton’s work sits in the troubadour tradition. He has written countless songs, mostly solo, but also working with other writers like Jimmy Barnes and both Farriss brothers. They straddle the genres of pop, blues, folk and country, but always with a driving energy and unpredictable lyrics.
His set this tour is a nicely curated selection of both old and new, performed with energy and humour. Clapton’s banter ensured a warm atmosphere. The band, consisting of Danny Spencer from Jimmy Barnes’s band on guitar, Clayton Doley, also from Barnes’s band on keys, Michael Hegerty bass, and Angus Burchill, from Farnham’s band, on drums. Clapton and the boys delivered an hour and half of tight musicianship, including such numbers as Stay With Me, Capricorn Dancer, Get Back to the Shelter and Liberty Bell. The number most of the audience kept shouting for, Deep Water, came later in the set, and the show closed with a powerhouse version of I Am an Island.
The sell-out crowd left happy and satisfied. Great Australian music is still happening, and venues like The Gov help keep it alive.
Richard Clapton is a national treasure.
Reviewed by Tracey Korsten
Twitter: @TraceyKorsten
Rating out of 5: 4
An Australian icon still delivering.
Venue: The Gov
Season: Finished
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