John Shand Posts

November 3, 2025 / Concert Reviews

Richard Bonynge Concert Hall, October 23 8/10 Samara Joy came out and told us that although she was recovering from a cold, she’d rather sing a few notes for us than none. Compromised she was, in range, volume and breath control. She avoided introducing songs or band members, and only…

November 2, 2025 / Concert Reviews

City Recital Hall, October 22 9/10 There are nights in the Blue Mountains when you gaze at the night sky with all the wonder of a child’s eyes. Hearing the Bill Frisell Trio is like that. A deep sense of mystery pervades the music, with notes from Frisell’s guitar flaring,…

October 31, 2025 / Concert Reviews

Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House, October 20 8/10 Gregory Porter’s voice is like a log fire on a winter’s night. It doesn’t just radiate warmth, it has a comfort factor. It’s the voice of someone who’s worked out a thing or two about this very temporary exercise called life, and…