The Man formerly known as Cat Stevens

Band: Yusuf Islam with support from Noxshi
Venue: Rod Laver Arena
Date: 16th June 2010
Reviewed By: Espylyn

Tonight there was never a doubt it would be a sell out show for us to witness Yusuf Islam perform after an absence of 36 years in Australia, and what a show we witnessed. From beginning to end the crowd ate up each note and each word Yusuf spoke.

Yusuf sang tunes sitting from his chair with support from a fantastic band. Songs included Avoid City After Dark (newbie), Where Do The Children Play, Matthew and Son and a collective mix of hits told around a story that Yusuf wrote (and is soon to become a stage production of a boy living in a world lit by moon shadows) and the background displayed throughout the night that was amazing, Tim Burton-esque drawings.

A quick break for Yusuf and punters alike and its more tunes which take us on a ride of calmness and relaxation entwined with body swaying. A voice that has not altered over the years -smooth, clear and happy, a man who obviously loves life and a man whom I am certainly glad took time to tour after so many years absent from the advertised music life. As a child Yusuf survived tuberculous and as an adule he found God after nearly drowning in the ocean.

Some jokes, new tunes and some of his top shelf songs such as Wild World (also sung partly in African), Father and Son which was dedicated to his son who is in the band that supported tonight, Moon Shadow and lastly Peace Train.

Yusuf left us with a good feeling surounding us and he took us on a ride that hopefully will not be another 36 years of wait.