Live Review: Charles Bradley, JONES Jnr

Comprised of Sydney duo Evan and Morgan Jones, JONES Jnr got things rolling with a sleek mix of soul and R'n'B that had the evening's capacity crowd shifting merrily in readiness for the headline act. With Evan taking charge of vocal responsibilities and Morgan setting up some tasty little beats, the pair struck a neat balance between loose funk and a more down-tempo, soulful vibe. Ultimately, however, it was the latter that reigned supreme as even when they promised to ratchet things up a notch, the pair still settled on smooth grooves rather than anything too frenetic. What captures and holds attention primarily is Evan's remarkable voice, which sits high for the most part and never falters. Backed by a full band, you get the feeling that JONES Jnr. could develop into something quite special.

As a distinctly cheery atmosphere grew ever stronger, punters filed into the main stage to take in the alluring presence of Charles Bradley. With seven-piece backing band The Extraordinaires getting the crowd warmed up, the effervescent Bradley hit the stage, all glittery sequins, denim and unbridled passion. With little in the way of introduction, the Screaming Eagle of Soul took flight, his raspy, idiosyncratic wail spewing forth as he ruminated on love and pain and hopelessness. As far as performers go, there are few that could hold a candle to Bradley, a singer who not so long ago was making ends meet moonlighting as a James Brown impersonator. Vocally – even physically – the similarities are plain to see, but there's a spiritual connection between Bradley, his music and the audience that's all his. Belying his 65 years, he pulled off some remarkable dance moves that were saturated with sexual energy, inventiveness and incredible physicality. Tracks like Victim Of Love and Let Love Stand A Chance resonated most strongly both with the audience and with Bradley himself, who spent considerable time at the close of the set imploring the crowd to spread the love and pass on a decent world to future generations. It may be fanciful, but this magical artist, who's no doubt seen the worst in people through his chequered life, is still a believer. Don't forget the Black Rose.