I couldn’t think of a better way to end my concert drought of 14 months than to spend my first gig indulging in a feast of great Australian music. Even with Sydney in the middle of an early winter freeze, it didn’t stop the faithful from leaving their cosy homes to come out singing, dancing and very much appreciating these wonderful Australian artists of ours.
Music legends Daryl Braithwaite, Russell Morris, Jack Jones and Rai Thistlethwayte may have named themselves after goats (caprettos), but there was nothing ‘kid-ish’ about their performance. This is a concert well worth the effort during this, so far, blistering winter season and how fortunate are we that live music has returned during such trying times? We hope it can continue.
After an entertaining support act from the very engaging and talented JR Reyne (spunky too, as noticed by many), we were treated to a nonstop set from The Fabulous Caprettos. As rapturous applause ended our opening act, and began our main, we all knew what a very special night this was going to be. These artists have been on my ‘must see’ list for many years and, as a first timer, I was very excited to finally hear their music live.
Then we had our first Southern Sons hit of the evening with Jack Jones melting our hearts, and thawing our bodies, with the lovely ‘Always and Ever’. What a start to the night! Rai Thistlethwayte then regales us with his Thirsty Merc hit ’20 Good Reasons’.
We’re going to be spoiled tonight and it just continues on with a Caprettos original ‘Hit The Ground Running’. We all know how talented these guys are, but by watching them, you would think they had been performing together for much longer than just what Covid and distance between them would allow. I’m already thinking how great it would be if the Caprettos stuck around the music scene for quite some time.
This really is a smorgasbord of great music. It was just gorgeous and spinetingling to see Thistlethwayte’s ‘Understanding Love’ played live. The setlist continued flowing brilliantly with a great Morris cover of ‘Hush’, and my favourite Braithwaite song ‘As The Days Go By’.
I couldn’t pick a favourite performance tonight, that’s how exceptional every artist has been. Jones’ unique and powerful vocals tore through ‘Lead Me To Water’ and then it was time to forget it was freezing outside, with two Australian summer anthems: Braithwaite’s ‘One Summer’ and Thistlethwayte’s ‘In The Summertime’. How relaxing it was to float away, to temporarily dismiss all the issues of the last 14 months, and think of summer and good times. Thanks guys, you are keeping those flames of hope very much alive.
Revesby Workers is even more on their feet with another very loud round of applause, as we are now anticipating our encore with Braithwaite and his famed ‘The Horses’ cover… but this wasn’t just any version. We were treated to a special ‘extended mix’ featuring all band members showcasing their wonderful vocals. What a revelation. We knew the four main players could belt out a tune, but even the backup band left us hanging. Such an enjoyable and memorable gig from our extremely talented local icons. The audience is up and appreciating this slick performance. I especially loved the comradery shining through tonight, entwined with flawless musicianship, it was just an all-round ‘great idea’ to come together like this as a band.
We are lucky and thankful that we have music to help keep our souls somewhat fulfilled in a world that’s still affected and suffering. Covid be damned! Gigs like this are exactly what Dr Fauci ordered. It was great to catch up with old friends and bump into acquaintances. I am very much looking forward to another ‘Fabulous Caprettos’ night out.
© MARINA KNEZEVIC 2021 – All Rights Reserved
Photos © ANNA BARTLE @ rockchique
Love the Fabulous Caprettos? Share this post with your friends!
Like our Facebook Page Here