February 16, 2019

Concert Review: 95bFM GOLD – A 50th Anniversary Celebration

For many, 95bFM has been a lifeline, connecting curious and adventurous music lovers over the span of half a century.

Last night the venerable student radio station celebrated its 50th birthday with a multi-act show at Auckland’s Powerstation.

Musically though, there was no looking back.

But first, the night got underway with an appearance by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who, after making a few comments, introduced the first act, Auckland rockers Miss June.

It was clear that the band was chuffed to have the PM speak their name and they proceeded to let loose with a furious, exciting set.

My love for Miss June has been well documented earlier, and they did nothing to diminish it here. Annabel Liddell takes charge of a stage like no one else. Guitarist Jun Park is a blur of long hair and guitar strings. Bassist Chris Marshall’s playing seems to have gotten more aggressive and drummer Tom Leggett, who also plays for Wax Chattels, is a force of nature. I eagerly await an album.

Up next was Coco Solid, who strutted back and forth across the Powerstation stage, throwing down rhymes and tossing out flowers to the crowd. It was just her and her laptop, but she commanded the stage. Glad I caught her as she stated that this would be her last performance for a while.