Photo: Justin Edwards

The Tivoli, a cosy venue radiating old world charm. And as Whitley takes his position on stage, perched on a barstool, it’s like he’s singing directly to you. Well, you and 1500 of your closest friends.

He opens with maturity well beyond his 23 years. His voice strong and raspy but equally delicate as the lyrics of I Remember pass his lips and fill our ears. A confident and accomplished singer songwriter, it is apparent he feels comfortable enough with the audience that he entertains with ABBA’s Dancing Queen – the most likeable rendition I’ve ever heard – as well as a Mason Jennings cover after giving us a taste of his own original material.

With the audience sufficiently warm, Brissy locals Powderfinger walk out to deafening roars and cheers and immediately break in to Waiting For The Sun followed by My Kind Of Scene. The first hour is an acoustic set that does a fine job of showcasing some of the band’s ballads. After a short intermission the band are back ready to play a more upbeat, heavier electric set. Sometimes it’s hard to hear them above the audience: everyone is singing loudly and is on their best behaviour for the cameras. Lead vocalist Fanning tells us the gig is being streamed live via the ‘fad’ of the 21st century, the internet. My Happiness is started by Fanning but after a warning that “we better know the words” is hijacked by audience. Old favourite Passenger winds up this set, but we won’t let them go without a fight. The band are back to play a short encore of Living Type and (Baby I’ve Got You) On My Mind, leaving the audience on a definite high.

With the entire setlist chosen by fans – and given the breadth of tracks, most from earlier albums – this is definitely a show for the long-term fan.

KELLY PARISH

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