Review: Crowded House Live at Halifax Piece Hall – 19/6/24

Review: Crowded House Live at Halifax Piece Hall – 19/6/24

Review and Photos By Paul McWilliams

As the sun set over Halifax Piece Hall on the 19th of June, the anticipation in the air was palpable. I had been looking forward to this concert for months, and the glorious weather only added to the magic of the evening. Crowded House, a band whose music defined a significant part of my youth, was set to take the stage. The prospect of hearing those nostalgic tunes live, under a clear sky, was exhilarating.

Opening Act: Liam Finn

The evening kicked off with a performance by Liam Finn, an artist I was unfamiliar with but quickly grew to appreciate. Armed with loop pedals and a multi-instrumentalist’s skillset, Finn’s performance was both engaging and impressive. He effortlessly switched between instruments, layering sounds to create a rich, full-band experience all on his own. His easy-to-listen-to music set a relaxed tone for the night, with the crowd warming up to his sound and laughing at his comedic anecdotes.

Finn’s natural charisma shone through, making it feel like a personal performance for each member of the audience. It was a solid half-hour set that ended too soon, leaving the audience in high spirits and ready for the main act.

Main Event: Crowded House

With a relaxed, almost nonchalant stroll, Crowded House took to the stage amidst a wave of applause and cheers. They opened with “World Where You Live,” and from the first note, it was like stepping back in time. Neil Finn’s voice was as captivating as ever, untouched by the years, resonating through the historic venue with a timeless quality. The band, composed of seasoned musicians, played with a tightness and chemistry that only comes from years of performing together.

By the third song, “Fall at Your Feet,” the crowd was fully engaged, singing along in unison. It was a fantastic atmosphere, as if everyone was united by the music, carried away by the melodies. The swaying crowd moved in perfect harmony with the band’s performance, creating a sea of movement that mirrored the rhythm of the songs. The lights, the sound, and the setting all combined to create a truly magical experience.

The setlist was a perfect mix of old favorites and newer tracks, keeping the audience hooked from start to finish:

1. World Where You Live
2. Teenage Summer
3. Fall at Your Feet
4. Show Me the Way
5. Pineapple Head
6. To the Island
7. When You Come
8. Oh Hi
9. Magic Piano
10. Private Universe
11. Thirsty
12. Four Seasons in One Day
13. Sister Madly
14. Sweet Dreams
15. All That I Can Ever Own

Each song brought its own wave of nostalgia and joy. “Four Seasons in One Day” stood out as a highlight, with its hauntingly beautiful melody and poignant lyrics striking a chord with everyone present. The crowd’s enthusiasm never waned, and the band fed off this energy, delivering a performance that was both passionate and polished.

The night culminated with the iconic “Weather With You.” The entire venue joined in, creating a chorus that reverberated off the ancient stone walls of Piece Hall. It was a fitting end to an unforgettable night, leaving everyone on a high note.

Final Thoughts

Crowded House at Halifax Piece Hall was more than just a concert; it was a journey through time. The band’s ability to connect with the audience and deliver a flawless performance made it a night to remember. As I left the venue, the lyrics of “Weather With You” still echoing in my mind, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experience. The seamless blend of music, memories, and the perfect summer evening created a concert experience that was nothing short of magical.

The historic setting of Halifax Piece Hall added a unique charm to the evening. The venue itself, with its grand architecture and open-air ambiance, was the perfect backdrop for a band like Crowded House, whose music has a timeless quality. The combination of the historic venue and the enduring appeal of Crowded House’s music made for a truly special night.

Here’s to hoping Crowded House continues to bring their timeless music to fans new and old for many years to come. If this concert was any indication, their legacy is not only intact but flourishing, as they continue to create new memories and connect with audiences across generations.