Aha & Rick Astley | All Photos by Chris Zwagdyk

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By: Frankie Champion

Artist: AHA and Rick Astley

Date: Saturday 7th March 2020

Venue: Villa Maria Winery, Auckland, NZ

Villa Maria on a sunny day in March proved itself to be the perfect venue and mode of transport on a trip through time to the 1980s, where iconic Norwegian band A-ha finally played to Aucklanders. Joined by Rick Astley and indie pop support band The Beths, the three acts all played uplifting and well-put-together sets which went harmoniously hand in hand with the weather.

What is it about outdoor gigs being so much better? It’s something about being immersed within the vineyards, the beaming hot sun on your back, the drinks tasting even more refreshing, all brought together by an ‘80s soundtrack. This event put together by Day on the Green was a perfect concoction of fun, retro vibes.

The Beths provided a warming set, welcoming the audience and starting off the night. Originally from Auckland themselves, The Beths fit perfectly into the day and seemed a suitable fit as opener for the two iconic performances to follow. Having listened to a few of their tracks, I was pleasantly surprised by the execution of their set and also their adorable awkwardness. I now consider myself a fan, and would keep an eye out for this up and coming Kiwi band.

Rick Astley certainly did not fail to provide, as he attacked the audience with energy and presence. Seemingly looking enthused by being in Auckland, he commented on the weather, the people and returning in the future. At that moment, I felt proud of everything our country has to offer. As Rick Astley played the remainder of his set, the audience at the Villa Maria winery showed him some good old Kiwi spirit, dancing and singing along to his iconic songs, especially when the worldwide number-one hit ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’ was being played at full volume, a perfect note to end the set, at which point the crowd was absolutely loving it.

After Ricks's amazing performance, it was hard to believe that A-ha would be able to top it, and with a long delay between acts the odds of them beating Ricks set were getting less and less likely. Confusion started to seep through the crowd, as the main event still had not come out. By this time, the sun had set and the sky was now filled with shadows of clouds, and a cold breeze rippled through the anxious audience. When they finally emerged onto the stage, they apologised for the delay and began to shake the winery with their mixture of pop, ‘80s vibes and rock. They brought so much life to the venue, and despite their delay and the turning weather, their life and energy was infectious, hypnotising the audience. As they played, the crowd too became a vocalist within the ensemble, shouting, singing along and laughing. It was a symphony of sound and smiles, all rolled into one. Their crowd engagement and stage presence could not top Rick Astley’s, but their song execution and dedication was off the charts. They serenaded the crowd with slow songs such as ‘Crying in the Rain’ and they provoked head banging and dancing shoes with other tunes. The crowd was roaring with delight when ‘Take on Me’ was played not once but twice, and showed their gratitude by singing along at the very top of their lungs.

The Villa Maria Winery was absolutely bliss this weekend - full of ‘80s music, delicious wine, an abundance of friendly people and a heck load of dancing. The Day on the Green’s final show finished on a beautifully sweet note, ringing out between the vineyards and over the hills, fading away into a distant but fond memory for the audience to look back on.

Review Edited By: Jake Ebdale