Goanna - Sydney - September 18 2022

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of “Spirit of Place”, a landmark album in the history of Australian music, Goanna undertook an extensive national tour, their first this century. For the Sydney show, Shane Howard, Rose Bygrave, Marcia Howard and Graham Davidge were joined on stage by Billy Cummins who had played didgeridoo on the recording of “Solid Rock”. Troy Cassar-Daley was also a special guest for four of the songs, three of which I caught:

Razor’s Edge (00:36)
Song for East Timor (06:57)
On the Platform (11:43)
Solid Rock (22:39)
Common Ground (29:26)
Children of the Southern Land (35:09)

Sometimes it doesn’t pay to sit in the front row. It had been pushed right up against the stage, and with the monitors towering above me, it was impossible to see any of the performers except for those standing at the very front. The sound quality was also very poor. Much of the time it was even difficult understanding what Shane was saying. From other online videos, I know the sound quality was much better further back. Considering the first few rows were sold as premium seating, I was disappointed with what I experienced. I’m sure it was a much better concert a few rows further back. Still, it was a special performance and I’m glad I was there.