The atmosphere was charged on an evening where lighting loomed, yet undeterred by the inclement weather, enthusiasts of The Teskey Brothers congregated at The Riverstage for the culminating last night of an exceptional tour.
Devotees settled onto picnic blankets and donned ponchos, and serendipitously, the weather abated just in time for what promised to be a memorable evening.Kicking off the night was WILSN, whose performance was a mesmerising journey into the soulful realms of music. With a voice that effortlessly oscillated between sultry lows and powerful highs, she held the audience captive from the first note.
Backed by a tight-knit band, WILSN's stage presence exuded confidence and authenticity, creating an intimate connection with the crowd. The blend of soul, blues, and indie elements in her music resonated with both the heart and mind.
From the emotive storytelling to the skilful instrumentation, every element of WILSN's show seemed meticulously crafted. As she effortlessly navigated through her repertoire, the atmosphere was charged with both vulnerability and strength.
WILSN - image © KealiJoan Studios
Next up was Courtney Marie Andrews, who delivered a spellbinding performance that transcended the boundaries of folk and Americana.
From the moment she stepped onto the stage, Andrews commanded attention with her emotive vocals and masterful guitar playing. Her stage presence was both humble and magnetic, creating an atmosphere that felt like an intimate gathering of friends.
She effortlessly traversed the landscapes of her discography, seamlessly blending poignant ballads with more upbeat, foot-stomping numbers. The authenticity in her storytelling resonated with the audience.
As the night unfolded, it became evident that Courtney Marie Andrews is not just a musician; she's a storyteller, a captivating performer whose genuine artistry left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to be present.
Courtney Marie Andrews - image © KealiJoan Studios
As the lighting flashed, crowds roared, The Teskey Brothers hit the stage for what was going to be the most electric last night of the 2023 component of their current tour.
From the opening notes, the band's vintage-inspired sound washed over the crowd, reminiscent of classic R&B and blues with a contemporary twist.
The concert experience took a culturally enriching turn as The Teskey Brothers seamlessly transitioned from the soulful strains of 'Man Of The Universe' to a heartfelt 'Welcome To Country'.
The Teskey Brothers continued to enchant the audience with the debut of their latest composition, 'The Winding Way' – the band's third studio album that was released earlier this year.
The Teskey Brothers - image © KealiJoan Studios
As the soulful melodies unfolded, Josh Teskey, the band's charismatic frontman, turned to the crowd describing 'Oceans of Emotions' as "like the oceans of relations".
In a heart-warming moment they expressed their sincere appreciation for fans of all ages. With genuine gratitude, the band took a pause to acknowledge the diverse audience, extending their thanks to both the young and old in attendance.
In a rare and intimate moment, Josh and Sam Teskey charmed the audience by treating them to a stripped-back session, a departure from the band's usual repertoire. With a smile, Josh shared: "Y'know what, we don't do this very often, but I'll get y'all to get your phones out and do that light thing. Just because you all look beautiful tonight."
Throughout the night, it was clear the chemistry among the band members and their crew was palpable, creating a seamless musical tapestry that showcased their exceptional musicianship.
The Teskey Brothers - image © KealiJoan Studios
As that time of the evening rolled around and fans prepared for an emotional encore, The Teskey Brothers expressed their gratitude for their fans with a promise: "You guys keep on coming, we're going to keep on coming back."
In a playful and affectionate introduction, Sam Teskey shed light on his brother Josh's role in the band, saying: "And Josh over here, he doesn't really sing much—okay, he sings a little. But he doesn't sing to the ears, he sings to the heart."
The atmosphere reached a pinnacle of connection and emotion as The Teskey Brothers delved into 'Hold Me' for the set closer, an undeniable crowd favourite.
The audience's enthusiasm soared to new heights, with the crowd spontaneously joining in to sing half the song, creating an ethereal moment where voices and emotions intertwined.
In a stripped-down rendition, the absence of instruments allowed the pure essence of the vocals to shine, showcasing the power of the song's lyrics and the band's ability to create an intimate connection with their audience.
The Teskey Brothers - image © KealiJoan Studios
Adding to the magic of the performance, Sam dancing with trumpet player Audrey Powne brought an element of spontaneity and joy to the stage. This wholesome interaction between band members not only revealed the genuine camaraderie within the group, but also contributed to the overall sense of unity and celebration.
The collective singing, the harmonious blend of voices, and the musicians' light-hearted camaraderie all culminated in an emotional moment, creating a memory that would linger in the hearts of both the band and the audience long after the final notes faded away and the band made their final bow.
More photos from the show.
