'Creedence Clearwater Inspired' // QPAC

‘Creedence Clearwater Inspired’ was rockin’.

Perth’s Proud Mary transformed QPAC’s Concert Hall into the Oakland Coliseum during their latest rock spectacular, ‘Creedence Clearwater Inspired’. The band, led by former Baby Animals legends Eddie Parise and Frank Celenza, brought the iconic discography of Creedence Clearwater Revival to life, 50 years on.

Despite their short-lived communion, original Creedence Clearwater Revival members John Fogerty, Tom Fogerty, Stu Cook and Doug Clifford managed to release six platinum albums over five years. The band only toured Australia once (in 1972), and started to disassemble shortly after. Following the split, John Fogerty (the lead guitarist and singer-songwriter of the group) went on to have an illustrious solo career, penning well-known hits like ‘Rockin’ All Over The World’, ‘The Old Man Down the Road’ and ‘Rock and Roll Girls’. For many of the audience members, this concert was the first time they would have heard these songs performed live – this made the atmosphere electric. The audience were desperate to dance to the music – one audience member even used their crutch as an air guitar!

Praise must be given to QPAC’s Senior Lighting Technician, Andrew Haden, who somehow transfigured the Concert Hall’s lofty ceilings and spacious interior to feel like a packed-out hotel on a Friday night. Their killer design choices amped up the vibe in the room exponentially. The staging was simple: no pyrotechnics, dancers, or crazy set pieces, which meant the true star of the show – the music – could take centre stage.

Proud Mary, who have performed together for a decade, were in total communion – it was clear they highly respect each other’s talent and artistic integrity. Frontman Ryan Rafferty combatted Fogarty’s high notes with ease, his vocal capability coming second only to his humility; regularly praising bandmates, the crew, and Michael, the guitar tech. Rafferty’s stage presence captivated the audience for the full show – a true rockstar. Guitarist Paul Cushing was unbelievably skilful; he brought the house down with every guitar solo. Bassist Eddie Parise and drummer Frank Celenza performed with a level of mastery that only people with a lifetime love of music can. This show proved their expertise.

Producer Phil Bathols is a genius for bringing Proud Mary to QPAC in ‘Creedence Clearwater Inspired’. It was not the type of show you’d usually catch in the Concert Hall, but it was thrilling. At the end of the concert, the band performed an encore of three more songs and received a well-earned standing ovation.

‘Creedence Clearwater Inspired’ played for one night only. Follow Proud Mary’s future performances via their Facebook page.