Live Review: Ziggy Alberts

Walking into the small back room of Waratah Hotel, reminded us of walking into our lounge room after a long day. People sat on the floor, legs crossed, for the first several rows and, further back, others reclined comfortably on couches. It was small, intimate and cosy. When Ziggy Alberts took to the stage armed with his guitar, he sat down and began chatting with the adoring audience — all eyes on him.

Before he started singing, Alberts told stories about his time in Byron Bay and the backgrounds to his songs. A true storyteller, Alberts had the audience hanging off his every word, eager for what would follow. Soon everyone was upstanding and moved in closer to the front so they could dance and get a little crazy. Mid-way through a new single, Better Off (The Captain Planet Song), Alberts noticed a guy in the front of the audience with his back turned to him, talking and showing no interest in the music whatsoever. It wasn't long before Alberts stopped playing and offered the mystery man a full refund straight out of his back pocket and asked him to leave, stating, "I've travelled too far to be here tonight and I refuse to have this ruined for the beautiful people who want to enjoy the music and be in the moment." Security came into the middle of the crowd, escorted the young man out and the music continued.

Alberts' performance was beautiful, raw and captivating. With no crazy light show or gimmicks, just a guitar and passion for making and sharing beautiful music, it was a special night for many in the room; the kind of performance that makes you feel warm and fuzzy, like you're in a room with your best friends despite being in a room full of strangers. Alberts will be touring through to March, heading up to South Australia next weekend. If you happen to be in the area, do yourself a favour and get along to a show. You won't regret it.