Sydney simmers again in the light of dusk, as Enmore Theatre prepares to boil under the heat of the Earth, Wind & Fire Experience, founded by EW&F lead guitarist (between 1973-198) Al McKay and his 13-piece all-star band.
The crowd ranges from young to old, and the funky shirts are out in full force (9 November).Andrew de Silva warms up the crowd with a selection of originals and covers. "I can see the future, and the best is yet to come," he sings perfectly, as he gestures out at the crowd. With shades on and hair high, he covers Prince's 'Erotic City', strumming the funky rhythm.
He ends with original 'What's Up What's Down', crooning into the microphone, his black pants sparkling. His voice is smooth as whiskey. "Have fun tonight," he says as he leaves, as if that's not a given.
The sold-out crowd packs in, anticipation tingling the air. Massive cheers erupt as the band enter, the three male singers uniting to scream out a high note. Vocalist Claude Woods struts across the stage, singing the words of 'Serpentine Fire' right into your soul, before dancing back across.
All three vocalists join in an explosive harmony, while the whole band moves and grooves as one. Straight into the next song, and the synchronised dancing continues, the crowd swaying on every beat.
Epic solos flow from Gregory Moore on guitar and tonight is already reaching for the stars. The energy rolls on into 'Got To Get You Into My Life', with vocal solos and more guitar taking centre stage, the crowd singing every word.
Hands raise up high for 'Shining Star', and the feet are moving just as high. "It's Saturday night!" Woods yells before the song of the same name, this one featuring a dance break, and the energy is sky high.
"This is a special night," vocalist Tim Owens shares. "Because this band came to Australia several years ago for a festival, but this our first concert in Australia with hard tickets sold. So Sydney put your hands together!"
Saxophonist Keith McKelley, who resembles a bikie bodyguard more than a sensual musician, comes forward for a brilliant solo that begins tasteful and controlled, winding through to a sonic explosion. The ticket price is worth it just to see this man play, an absolute highlight.
"Sydney, remember we love you," vocalist DeVere Duckett says, introducing pianist Ben Dowling, who plays under a single spotlight as the stage empties. The piece is hauntingly beautiful, his fingers rambling and meandering dramatically.
'After The Love Has Gone' follows with another stunning sax solo, and some group vocals that will be cherished forever. Tim Owens leads the crowd in a long sing-along that displays both his and surprisingly the crowd's vocal prowess, before the entire brass section have their moment in another feast for the ears.
"We've done some ballads and some slow songs," Duckett says. "Now it's time to dance!" 'Fantasy' starts dramatically, the crowd uniting with fingers in the air for the lyrics, "we will be as one," as the theatre swells with sound and crashing cymbals.
For 'Let Your Feelings Show', Duckett hands the mic humorously to pianist Dowling on alternating lines, who has a surprising low register. 'That's The Way Of The World' features crowd arm-waving, and the mood in the entire theatre is so loving and warm.
'September' explodes the room, with everyone dancing and singing, as they hug and bop together. The band leaves and returns, before Owens introduces everyone, in a nice show of acknowledgement. Even the sound techs get a mention.
Before you can wonder if there's any chance of leaving without the full satisfaction of all the classics, they roll out 'Boogie Wonderland' and 'Let's Groove' in a one-two all the way from the heart down to your dancing shoes.
With absolutely stunning vocals and a band full of world class performers, the Earth, Wind & Fire Experience is a lifetime must if you want an evening full of love, heart and boogieing.
