Review by Markus Hamence – Thursday 8 February 2024, The Gov, South Australia
Charley Crockett Lights Up Adelaide: A Night at The Gov You Had to See to Believe
It was one of those nights in Adelaide that felt more like a scene from a movie than real life. The Gov, with its rich history of hosting some of the most memorable gigs in town, was buzzing with anticipation. And let me tell you, Charley Crockett and his band did not just perform; they transformed the night into something magical. Supported by Australian artist, Emma Donovan, the night was very memorable. If you weren’t there, you missed out, but hey, let me paint you a picture of what went down at the 2024 Adelaide concert.
The Atmosphere
From the moment you stepped into The Gov, you could feel the electricity in the air. We were excited and the crowd was varied. We were a mix of die-hard Crockett fans and curious newcomers, all mingling, drinks in hand, waiting for the show to start. The venue, with its intimate setting and vintage charm, was the perfect backdrop for the night’s festivities. It felt like stepping into another era, one where the music was about to tell stories you’d want to listen to over and over again.
The Support Artist: Emma Donovan
From the moment Emma Donovan stepped onto the stage, the room was electrified. There’s something about her presence that commands attention, a blend of warmth, power, and authenticity that’s rare to find. Backed by her incredible band, the stage was set for a night of soulful grooves, heartfelt melodies, and powerful storytelling.
The Opening Number: Emma kicked off the night with a bang and an easy confidence, delivering a stunning track that immediately got the crowd moving. Her voice, rich and emotive, filled the venue, setting the tone for what was to be an unforgettable evening.
The Stories Behind the Songs: Between numbers, Emma shared the stories and personal journeys behind her songs. It was these moments of vulnerability and connection that elevated the concert from a mere performance to a shared experience. Her anecdotes about family, heritage, and the struggles and triumphs of life resonated deeply, creating a bond with the audience that’s rare in live music.
A Soul-Stirring Finale: The climax of the night came with positive vibes and soul-stirring. Emma’s performance, imbued with emotion and power, left a lasting impact, drawing a ovation from the moved audience. It was a testament to her ability to not only entertain but to move and inspire through her music.
The Man of the Hour: Charley Crockett
Charley Crockett, with his distinctive blend of blues, country, and soul, took to the stage with a charisma that’s hard to put into words. Dressed in his signature style, he looked every bit the modern-day troubadour he is known to be. His voice, a rich tapestry of experiences and emotions, captured the audience from the first note. It was evident that Charley wasn’t just performing; he was sharing a part of his soul with us. He opened with his track from the upcoming (this April) album of the same name, $10 Cowboy. It engaged us immediately.
The Setlist
The setlist was a masterful mix of Crockett’s hits, deep cuts, and a few surprises, but LOTS from the upcoming new album (which were embraced eagerly). Each song told a story, from the struggles and heartaches to the joy and redemption found along the way. Highlights included the banger ‘Music City USA’ and an electrifying performance of “Run Horse Run.” But it was his cover of a classic country song (the title escapes me now – Travelin’ Blues?, but, it was flippin’ amazing) that left the audience spellbound. However, I always love ‘The Man from Waco’. Brilliant.
The Band
Let’s not forget the band. They were tight, playing with a synergy that only comes from musicians who are not just bandmates but brothers in arms. The guitar solos were mesmerizing, the rhythm section was on point, and the keyboard added layers of depth to the music that made each song come alive in new ways. They were the perfect complement to Crockett’s vocals, creating a sound that was rich, full, and utterly captivating.
The Crowd
The energy of the crowd was something to behold. There was dancing, there were tears, there was a shared sense of experiencing something truly special plus MANY cowboy boots and big hatted clad folk. It didn’t matter who you were or where you came from; for those few hours, we were all part of something bigger. The connection between Charley and his audience was tangible, a testament to his ability to touch hearts and souls with his music.
The Encore
As the night drew to a close, the inevitable cries for an encore were answered with not one, but three extra songs. It was the perfect end to a perfect night. As the final notes faded away, there was a collective feeling of gratitude. Gratitude for music that moves, for nights that feel like dreams, and for artists like Charley Crockett, who remind us of the power of live music. As we departed The Gov, the chatter and cheer was an unwavering appreciation and respect for experiencing this master of blues and country. We and champing at the bit for the new album.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Adelaide concert at The Gov was more than just a gig; it was an experience. Charley Crockett and his band created an atmosphere that was both intimate and explosive, leaving everyone who was there knowing they had witnessed something truly special. If you have the chance to see Charley Crockett live, don’t hesitate. It’s not just a concert; it’s a journey through the heart of Americana music, guided by one of its finest troubadours. Let’s hope for a 2025 tour. I purchased two vinyls (I’m playing them as I write this on my sofa at 11.56pm after the show). Next time I need ‘$10 Cowboy’ in my collection please.
So, to those who were there, we shared a night we’ll never forget. And to those who missed it, let’s hope Charley Crockett makes his way back to Adelaide soon. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it again.
