Live Review: Dan Sultan. Benny Walker, Pierce Brother

A crowd of loyal revellers donned their finest ponchos and gumboots to brave the rain and see the voice behind Blackbird, Dan Sultan, at Taronga Zoo.

Benny Walker and Pierce Brothers started the night on the Twilight Series stage, warming up the shivering, slightly damp crowd who hadn’t let a little storm keep them away. The two opening acts set the pace perfectly for what was going to be a raw and emotional show.

Walker was almost reminiscent of a younger Sultan. Also hailing from regional Victoria, his voice and swagger, teamed with a soulful backing singer, and tight band had the crowd swept away.

Meanwhile twin brothers Jack and Pat Pierce brought an infectious energy and fun to the stage, the former street performers are definitely a band to watch.

Sultan was on point from the minute he entered the stage. Despite the dreary weather conditions, there was definitely good vibes in the air.

Taking centre of a dimly lit stage with the rolling clouds as a backdrop, Sultan kicked off with an explosive rendition of Under Your Skin. Live, the man is no less than brilliant. Wearing his heart on his sleeve, the crowd was treated to his acoustic talent, skilful guitar handling, his unique way of telling powerful stories through his songs, and of course, his charisma.

We were all swept away with his renditions of It Belongs To Us and Kimberley Calling, both powerful love songs about our land and all of it’s stories, delivered with a passion that was just captivating.

The encore ended with Old Fitzroy, which was a perfect way to finish up a powerfully emotional, albeit slightly chilly night overlooking beautiful Sydney.