Dream Gigs

It's the time of year when you start hoping your favourite artists will play the Big Day Out so they will also do a sideshow somewhere else. Even if this is highly unlikely, it's still talked about as though it's possible that your favourite five bands will somehow all come out for the summer festivals. Anyway, I decided to make a list of my dream gigs, the unmissable shows I'd give up a day of sick leave to attend. Well, maybe not all of them. But I'd definitely go along to see these bands and artists if I could.

Wilco
Saw them play the Palais this year in a performance that immediately assumed the status of my top gig of all time. I wish I'd been able to see their second show, which was apparently a more intimate affair. I'd love to see all the new material performed again, now I know the songs well.

Ben Folds or Ben Folds Five Reunion Tour
How amazing would it be if they actually did reform? Two years ago I saw Ben at the Forum plus a bass player and drummer which reminded me of the old band. He also treated us with a large set lists of old BF5 tracks. I'd settle for Ben on his own, but I would have loved to see the band live back in '98.

The Shins
I'd like to see them in a venue like the Forum and I'm sure they could pull together a big enough crowd. I haven't seen them perform their new material from Wincing the Night Away yet, but since they've been here twice in the past two years it's only a matter of time.

Martha Wainwright
Last time she played an intimate gig at the Northcote Social Club. I think she'd sell out a show at the Corner now and I'd love to see her. So many great songs on her first album and I'm really anticipating the release of the next one.

Regina Spektor
She was great this year, second on my list of gig highlights so far. An engaging and funny performer with a good repertoire to draw upon.