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Wilco's Return to Australia: A Captivating Performance at Sydney Opera House.

Updated: Mar 24

Wilco's return to Australia after over a decade was a momentous occasion, marked by a night of a captivating performance at the iconic Sydney Opera House. The Chicago indie rock veterans, led by the charismatic Jeff Tweedy, delivered an unforgettable experience that showcased their musical prowess and enduring relevance in the rock scene.


From the first note of their set, i.e. "Hell is Chrome", Wilco demonstrated why they are considered an institution in indie rock. The band's sound was immaculate, with a repertoire spanning from their Americana roots to their most experimental and ambitious moments.


Over the course of fover twenty songs, they took the audience on a journey through their diverse catalog, eliciting sing-alongs and nostalgic moments throughout the night.


Hits like 'I Am Trying To Break Your Heart', 'A Shot In The Arm', 'Heavy Metal Drummer', and 'California Stars' resonated deeply with the crowd, highlighting the band's ability to craft timeless and memorable tunes. Newer tracks like 'Evicted' also found a place in the setlist, showcasing Tweedy's continued brilliance as a songwriter.


Wilco's musicianship was on full display, with each band member contributing to the magic of the performance. Guitarist Nels Cline's expertise in generating intricate layers of sound added depth to songs like 'Handshake Drugs' and 'Impossible Germany', while Glenn Kotche's drumming and John Stirratt's melodic bass playing provided a solid foundation for the band's dynamic range.



Throughout the night, Wilco masterfully navigated between soft, delicate moments and thunderous, explosive crescendos, keeping the audience captivated and engaged. The band's handle on dynamics was astounding, exemplified by songs like 'Via Chicago' and 'Falling Apart (Right Now)', where they seamlessly transitioned between contrasting moods and textures.


Visually, the concert was simple yet powerful, with tasteful lighting and visuals enhancing the overall experience. Wilco's ability to blend familiarity with innovation, challenge with comfort, made this concert a standout event that reaffirmed their status as one of the great rock bands of our time.


For those fortunate enough to witness Wilco's performance at Sydney Opera House, it was a reminder of the band's enduring legacy and their unparalleled ability to captivate audiences with their timeless music and exceptional musicianship.


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Words by AW.

Photo courtesy of Sydney Opera House and Mikki Gomez.

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