In the realm of entertainment, the allure of nostalgia acts is undeniable, but what truly captivates audiences is the ability to transport them not just to a specific era, but to a state of mind. This is precisely what Split Enz achieved with their recent reunion tour, a testament to the enduring power of music to evoke a sense of hope and excitement, regardless of age. The band's performance at Rod Laver Arena was a spectacle of musical prowess and emotional resonance, leaving a lasting impression on fans and newcomers alike.
Split Enz, a band that disbanded in 1984 before I was born, seamlessly blended their eclectic art rock, heartfelt power ballads, and infectious pop bangers. The reunion tour, their first in almost two decades, was a triumph of musical storytelling, with each song serving as a portal to the band's rich history. The opening act, marked by the band members' entrance under a golden cloth, set the stage for an evening of musical double-billing and an ever-rotating arrangement that showcased the extraordinary capabilities of every musician.
Tim Finn, the charismatic frontman, exuded youthful insouciance as he swaggered about the stage. The opening songs, all hits, transported the audience back to the band's earlier years in Victoria, with Finn reminiscing about playing to a crowd of zero people in Shepparton. The repertoire, ranging from eclectic art rock to heartfelt power ballads to pop bangers, felt big and full, resonating deeply with the audience.
The lead vocals, alternated between Neil Finn and Tim, created an endearing big brother-little brother dynamic on stage. A high-energy rendition of Double Happy, set to a montage of the suits of Noel Crombie, the percussionist and art director, added a touch of whimsy and levity to the performance. Crombie's stage antics, including his infamous spoon solos, stole the show, showcasing his manual dexterity and creativity.
What made this reunion tour truly special was the sense of hope and excitement it evoked. Watching these men in their 60s and 70s doing what they love, I found myself experiencing whatever the opposite of nostalgia is. It was a reminder that there's always something fun and exciting around the corner, no matter your age. The performance was a testament to the enduring power of music to bring people together and create a sense of community, even decades after the band's initial disbandment.
In contrast, the Melbourne Theatre Company's Shoelace Chaser, a comic three-hander that lightly explores the bonds of teenage friendship, a growing adolescent awareness of social inequality, and the difficulties that arise for those who've been thrust into the role of carer, offers a different perspective on the power of entertainment. While the play doesn't delve deeply into the grim reality of various inequities, it provides a brisk survey of the issues wrapped in a bright, amusing, and slightly sentimental vision that emphasizes adolescent friendship and the comedy of recognition.
In conclusion, the Split Enz reunion tour and Shoelace Chaser are two examples of the enduring power of entertainment to evoke a sense of hope and excitement, regardless of age. While the former transports audiences back to a specific era through music, the latter explores the bonds of teenage friendship and the complexities of social inequality through comedy and drama. Both performances left a lasting impression on me, reminding me of the importance of embracing the past while looking forward to the future.
