Gig review: More FM Winery Tour

BY SALLY FRENCH

The final concert in the Winery Tour featuring Che Fu, Boh Runga and Dave Dobbyn promised to end the series with a bang, reviewer Sally French was there.

The More FM Winery Tour 2010

Where: Villa Maria Estate, Auckland

When: Saturday March 6

The challenge was set for Aucklanders last night as Che Fu took to the stage telling fans he wanted the final night of series the to go off with a bang.

And he wasn't disappointed as thousands of people packed the stunning winery, armed with picnic baskets, blankets and camp chairs lapping up every one of the classic songs that came their way.

Just after 6pm concert-goers were welcomed by the voice of beautiful Boh Runga.

The late afternoon sun drenched the stage, making her appear almost angelic as she performed solo.

She was completely at home on stage, and the confidence she oozed while belting out both old and new hits was hypnotising.

Stellar's classic hit What to Do raised the crowd onto its feet.

Runga told fans that she was "a bit sad" the concert series was ending.

"I love New Zealand summers. They are all about kicking back and relaxing."

Che Fu's super smooth voice teamed with Runga kept fans happy with several duets including Chains, Reload and The Beatles' classic Come Together Right Now.

The pair had a blast and were the perfect introduction to the evening as the crowd settled in for a magical time, clinking their plastic wine glasses and enjoying the warm setting sun.

Just after 8pm fans erupted into cheers as Tim Finn, Dave Dobbyn and Bic Runga took to the stage with Weather with You.

And the classics just kept coming, from Bic Runga's Sway and Drive, to Tim Finn's I see red and Dobbyn's Loyal and Slice of Heaven.

The hits were well polished and fans were encouraged to join in. 

Many parents had taken young children along and it was obvious by the amount of youngsters singing that the songs were regulars on their mum and dad's stereos.

 "I see light in the people," Dobbyn yelled to the crowd.

Tim Finn's endless energy on stage put many of us to shame. 

His jerky arm movements were reminiscent of his days with Split Enz and he and his mop of grey hair let rip. 

It was hard to take my eyes off him.

Just as fans started to think the magic was coming to an end, Welcome Home ensured everyone got back on their feet for one final boogie.   

If the band had continued playing, the audience would have been dancing all night long.

This was the final of sixteen More FM Winery gigs this summer. 

As I headed for the car, I couldn't help but feel sad that summer was now officially over. 

And I'm sure many others felt the same.

*Were you at the gig? What did you think? Post your comments below.

- © Fairfax NZ News