Nestled within the imposing limestone walls of the heritage-listed Fremantle Prison, the stage was set for an extraordinary night of live music. The colossal guard towers loomed overhead, creating a surreal backdrop that combined the echoes of history with the promise of contemporary lyrical delights.
The evening commenced with the dynamic duo, Sam and Sam, hailing all the way from the east coast of Australia. The duo’s choice to blend covers and original compositions added a layer of anticipation, making it clear that this night would be anything but ordinary. Their original song ‘One More Song’ created a shift in the punters that came in early, loosening up the appreciation for the music to come.
The duo’s cover of ‘Savage Garden’ was enticing. The iconic lyrics echoed against the prison walls, creating an almost surreal atmosphere. Sam and Sam’s rendition infused the well-known hit with their unique style, breathing new life into the familiar melody. The audience responded with nods of approval and appreciative applause, clearly enjoying the reinterpretation of a beloved classic.
As the night unfolded within the historic confines of Fremantle Prison, the stage witnessed an electrifying transformation with the entrance of Mahalia Barnes and The Soulmates. The daughter of the legendary namesake Jimmy, Mahalia brought her own brand of soulful prowess, turning the prison’s stone walls into a canvas for a vibrant musical tapestry. Launching into their set with infectious energy, Mahalia Barnes and The Soulmates delivered a performance that was both funky and punchy. The crowd was immediately captivated by the magnetic presence of Mahalia, her voice resonating through the old prison corridors with an undeniable strength reminiscent of her iconic father (who was still yet to come).
The setlist was a concoction of originals and well-chosen covers that showcased the band’s versatility. Tracks like ‘Always be Right Here’ and ‘Don’t Hold Back’ had the audience grooving to the irresistible rhythm, proving to be instant crowd favourites. The chemistry between Mahalia and The Soulmates was palpable, each musician contributing to the collective vibrancy of the performance. A standout moment of the night came with Mahalia’s rendition of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s ‘Proud Mary’. The classic track underwent a soulful metamorphosis, with Mahalia infusing it with her powerful vocals and The Soulmates adding a fresh, funky twist. The result was nothing short of spectacular, earning cheers and applause that reverberated against the prison walls.
In a touching moment, Mahalia shared her musical influences, paying homage to the legendary Bette Davis and acknowledging the impact of strong, influential women in the music industry. This sentiment added depth to the performance, showcasing not only Mahalia’s vocal prowess but also her appreciation for those who paved the way. Mahalia Barnes, much like her father, possesses a voice that is both strong and soul-stirring. It’s a potent blend of passion and purpose that resonated through every note. As Mahalia and The Soulmates bid farewell to the stage, the echoes of their performance lingered, ensuring that this night would be remembered as a testament to the enduring power of soulful, purposeful music.
In a crescendo of anticipation, the iconic Jimmy Barnes took the stage at Fremantle Prison, embodying the very essence of Australian rock music. Backed by his formidable 8-piece support, Barnesy dazzled the sold-out crowd with a performance that transcended time, bringing together generations of fans within the historic prison walls. The atmosphere crackled with electricity as the Australian rock legend humorously acknowledged this unique venue, recounting tales of past performances in prisons that were far from as “happy” as the fervent audience gathered that night. The connection between artist and crowd was instantaneous, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.
Amidst the thunderous beats and blistering guitar solos, Barnes shared anecdotes from the road, regaling the audience with tales of near-death experiences on the infamous Nullarbor Plain. His charismatic storytelling added a personal touch to the night, creating a sense of camaraderie between the rock icon and his devoted fans. The musical journey orchestrated by Barnes traversed the spectrum of his illustrious career. The setlist was a rollercoaster of fast-paced rock anthems and soulful ballads, each note resonating against the formidable prison walls. A surprise appearance by Jane, Jimmy’s wife, playing the bagpipes during a performance added a touch of Celtic flair to the rock spectacle.
Fan favourites like ‘Lay Down Your Guns’ had the entire crowd singing in unison, creating a harmonious blend of voices that reverberated through the historic venue. The intimate solo performance of ‘Flame Trees’ at the piano elicited goosebumps, showcasing the raw emotion and vulnerability that lies beneath Barnes’ rock persona. ‘Ride the Night Away’ ignited a collective surge of energy, with the crowd rising from their seats to dance and celebrate the night. However, the true pinnacle of the evening came with the timeless anthem ‘Khe Sanh’, and a moment that transcended the boundaries of time and space, uniting the crowd in a euphoric chorus.
As the final chords echoed through the prison, Jimmy Barnes left his mark on Fremantle, delivering an extraordinary performance that not only celebrated his legendary career but also paid homage to the enduring spirit of Australian rock. The night concluded, leaving the sold-out crowd with a shared sense of exhilaration, having witnessed a performance that was nothing short of rock ‘n’ roll magic within the historic confines of Fremantle Prison.
With thanks to Face to Face Touring for the media access.
Photo: HB Media
