On The Green

Illawarra Mercury

Saturday September 22, 2007

KIRK GILMOUR

When Steely Dan hit the stage in the Hunter Valley last weekend, Mercury photographer KIRK GILMOUR was there to face the music.

It was a day among the vines and for many ticket holders a big day on the wine, with iconic Aussie band Gangajang, classic-sounding Brits World Party and '70s American rockers Steely Dan providing the tunes for a sell-out crowd of 6000.

A glorious day greeted the Hunter Valley last Saturday; Bimbadgen Estate at Pokolbin providing the perfect setting for a Day on the Green.

Multicoloured deck chairs were scattered everywhere, - self-supplied by concert-goers who took over the sloping grounds towards the stage. A fantastic amphitheatre was created within the winery grounds with the outdoor theatre allowing views of the valley that were nothing less than awesome.

Gangajang kicked off proceedings as bums were still hitting seats. Mark "Cal" Callaghan and crew didn't disappoint and their signature song Sounds of Then was well received. Of course it was, "this is Australia" mate.

Second band on the bill, British pop/rock band World Party, was a standout in the serene light of a setting sun. Twenty years ago the song Ship of Fools reached number four on the Aussie charts. It's got that timeless sound that will probably live on for another 20 years.

Exit sun and bring on the night, and believe me, it got very dark out there. The proof was in the many meals, drinks and limbs trampled underfoot by those trying to locate their chairs after a trip to the bar, a food outlet or portaloo. The only light was provided by the stage lights and the video wall.

Enter veteran American rock band Steely Dan for the first time on the east coast of Australia. Founders Donald Fagan and Walter Becker were blown away with the venue and with their backing band the Heavy Rollers. They pleased many, though they failed to throw in some old favourites.

© 2007 Illawarra Mercury

Back to News Index | Back to Home