The Opera House is is no stranger to playing host to some iconic music acts, over the last few years a number of artist from all genres have graced the stage at this Sydney landmark. Tonight’s guest however is the first time punk will be represented. As the former Stooges frontman and godfather of punk Iggy Pop makes his long-awaited Opera House debut.
We take our seats although we are not seated long as the dramatic operatic music reaches its crescendo the barking of dogs can now be clearly heard and out struts one of punks greatest front men the dynamic Iggy Pop. We all stand in applause and stay that way as things get in to high gear straight away with I Wanna Be Your Dog.
Backed by a full band that included a horn section, the sound was electric inside the concert hall. The whole crowd showing a huge Lust For Life as they danced and moved from quite literally in front of the stage to all the way up the back every one was on their feet the whole show.
My experience seeing Iggy Pop live has been through watching film clips on RAGE at 3 am on a Sunday morning. Being able to be so close, seeing him be still so dynamic as he gets down amongst the crowd and also inviting them all on stage during Search And Destroy,was truly a powerful live music experience. I don’t think the Opera House has ever experienced a show quite like this as not only Iggy was topless but some crowd members too showing we are still all really Wild Ones.
His vocal talents were not lost to the years of constant touring and the three encore set wowed us all earning him a standing ovation. His cover of David Bowies The Jean Genie sensational enough to rival his piers version. His own songs were a joy to watch from The Passenger to Search And Destroy and when he finally bid us farewell he left us with another great cover this time our very own Nick Caves and the Bad Seeds Red Right Hand
The whole night was a charming evening, a true celebration of Iggy Pop the punk with the poet’s heart proving he’s still full of raw power.
Review – Chad Heard