Split Enz At Spark Arena
What’s going on, Internet? Last night we headed back to the Spark Arena for another show. This weekend was Split Enz for the Forever Enz tour. After an eleven-year hiatus of playing together, they recently reformed to tour across NZ and Australia.
Split Enz formed in 1972 and released 10 studio albums before breaking up in 1984. Between then and now the band has had several brief reunions. They had broken up before I was born but their music was still a big part of mine, and many other kiwis’ lives growing up.
The Spark Arena was packed by the time we arrived near the end of the opening band, Hans Pucket. Our seats weren’t the most comfortable as we were at the end of the horizontal seats before they curved around so we had to twist around to catch the stage. The seats at MGK, while further back, were better positioned for viewing.
Anyway, we were in for an audio and visual treat. Band member Noel Crombie’s visual art was on full display with the visuals on screen and the costumes the band wore. The setlist was packed with all the songs that a crowd this size would expect with my favourites being Hard Act To Follow, I See Red, Six Months In A Leaky Boat, and I Got You (which has to be their greatest song).
I ducked out before the encore because I wanted to use the bathroom and escape the exiting crowds. Apparently I missed out on an incredible spoon solo to wrap up the show.
While I was waiting for the family to get out, I noticed that the copy of True Colours I’d picked up before the show was water damaged. Not sure how but during the show water must have spilt onto it. I was disappointed, but confirmed the vinyl wasn’t damaged and shrugged it off. Adds to the story I guess.
I also struck up a conversation with a woman who was also waiting for their friends to get out and we discussed how amazing it was for a band formed by a guy from rural NZ to get as big and acclaimed as they were. It’s also interesting that during the time they were able to get big while wearing the costumes and makeup they did. It was pretty out there for the time. Their music speaks volumes, I guess 😃
I had an incredible time at the show and I’m so glad I managed to add Split Enz to the list of acts I’ve been able to see live. Laterz.
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