Bush and Shinedown served up a seriously entertaining night at Brisbane Riverstage, delivering two 75 minute sets and more than a few aces along the way.
If you didn’t know already, Mr Gavin Rossdale is a serious tennis tragic and after watching him last night, I’m convinced he’s the Roger Federer of rock. He simply doesn’t age!
I first saw Bush at Reading Festival in 1997, and nearly 30 years later, this wonderful frontman still sounds as good — arguably better.
Bush and Shinedown gallery
Standouts
For me, the standout moment wasn’t a song.
During ‘Flowers on a Grave’, Gavin spotted a young fan, Levi (I hope I’ve got his name right), near the back of the Riverstage. His mum, a huge Bush fan, had brought him along — and watching Levi’s face light up as Gavin held his hand was genuinely beautiful.
That’s Gavin Rossdale for me. A frontman who has always come across as completely genuine.
Those moments transcend music. They’re a reminder that whoever walks through the gates of a gig, we’re all equal. Everyone has their own journey, and sometimes the smallest gesture can mean more than any spectacular production ever could.
Now, before I talk about Rossdale’s doubles partner, there’s an elephant in the room with co-headlining tours.
Fans will inevitably compare the two bands — and yes, some will say Shinedown were “streets ahead.” But are we really comparing apples with apples?
Shinedown brought the bells, whistles, pyro and spectacle. Bush didn’t. And that’s never really been what Bush is about.
So perhaps the real question is: how lucky were we to get both?
It had been 16 years between serves for Brent Smith and Shinedown, and they certainly weren’t kidding when they promised to bring the full show.
They were absolutely fantastic — energetic, huge and ridiculously entertaining. Hopefully Australia doesn’t have to wait another 16 years for the next serve.
Opening the night were New Zealand’s Coast Arcade, who brought plenty of youthful energy and a sound clearly carrying some ’90s influences. Definitely ones to watch.
Two bands. Two very different approaches. One bloody good night of live music.
Game. Set. Match.
Words and photography: Gerry Nicholls
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