Review by Markus Hamence – Peformance date: Friday 29 November 2024, The Gov, Adelaide, South Australia
You know, there’s one thing you can count on in the Australian music scene, it’s that Joe Camilleri and The Black Sorrows never do anything by halves. Last night, November 29, 2024, The Gov in Adelaide became the epicenter of soul-soaked blues and rock ‘n’ roll, as Camilleri and his legendary band turned the iconic venue into a celebration of music, storytelling, and groove to a massive freakin’ crowd that were there to appreciate AND party.
The Opening Act
Pinkerton Pendlebury, a collaboration between Andrew Pendlebury and Steve Pinkerton, brings together over five decades of musical experience. Andrew Pendlebury is renowned for his guitar work with the ’70s/’80s Melbourne band The Sports and his acclaimed solo records, including an ARIA Award winner. Steve Pinkerton gained prominence in the 2000s with The Anyones and currently plays drums for Dallas Crane and guitar in The Ronson Hangup.
Their self-titled debut album, released in April 2024, has been praised as “a beguiling collection of sophisticated pop music.” The album showcases their combined talents, offering a fresh yet nostalgic sound that resonates with a wide audience.
AND now, at The Gov, Pinkerton Pendlebury delivered a set that effortlessly blended new material with classic tracks, including some from The Sports’ repertoire. Their performance was a credit to their musical synergy, engaging the audience with intricate guitar work and harmonious vocals. The duo’s on-stage chemistry and storytelling added depth to the performance, creating a solid experience for all in attendance.
The Black Sorrows: A Legacy That Keeps It Coming
They hit the stage and Bang!, the energy was electric. Joe Camilleri, a national treasure in the Australian music scene with a voice that effortlessly blends grit and soul, led the charge with charisma that could fill a stadium. For a man who’s been crafting hits for decades, he showed no signs of slowing down. Tracks from their newest album, The Way We Do Business, were met with the same enthusiasm as timeless anthems like Chained to the Wheel and Harley & Rose. The crowd – young and old alike – sang along as if the songs were written for them. It was a joyous experience. Joe commands the stage, his presence is almost as big as his voice.
The Band…
The Black Sorrows are not just a band – they’re a masterclass in musicianship. Claude Carranza (guitar/vocals), Mark Gray (bass/vocals), James Black (keyboards/vocals) and Tony Floyd (drums) are a FORCE. From blistering guitar solos to the rhythmic swagger of the bass and drums, every note was crafted to perfection. It’s clear that Camilleri surrounds himself with artists who share his passion and commitment to live music. This was no paint-by-numbers performance; it was raw, real, and utterly captivating.
The Gov Brings It Home!
I love The Gov. It’s a venue that feels like a love letter to live music – intimate, authentic, and buzzing with energy. The stage that is wrapped by the audience means fans are practically part of the show, and you could feel the connection between artist and audience in every corner of the room. It’s the kind of place where you don’t just hear the music – you feel it. Again, I LOVE THE GOV!
The Highlights
It wasn’t just the music that made the night unforgettable. Camilleri’s storytelling added another layer to the experience. Between songs, he shared anecdotes and reflections that gave fans a glimpse into his creative world. Whether he was reminiscing about his early days or cracking a cheeky joke, the moments in between the music felt just as significant. He’s a fun guy. But, you know what, he’s actually MY KING of COOL. This guy has swagger by the bucket load.
And then, there was the encore, which just kept coming and giving – Marley’s ‘Stir It Up’… EXCEPTIONAL. Argh!
Final Thoughts…
Joe Camilleri and The Black Sorrows have nothing left to prove, but that doesn’t stop them from delivering shows that feel like they’re playing to prove everything. At The Gov, they reminded us all why live music is so powerful – because it’s not just about the songs; it’s about the connection, the stories, and the memories.
Get the chance to see The Black Sorrows live, don’t think twice. Joe Camilleri is a living legend, and nights like this one at The Gov are proof that his music will continue to resonate for generations to come. Rock ‘n’ roll (and blues) never felt so alive.
Check out the Official Photo Gallery here!
Check my INTERVIEW with Joe Camilleri in the lead up to the show here!
