July 26, 2023 – PNC Arts Center Holmdel, NJ
Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry
A Timeless Explosion of Nostalgia and Artistry lit up the PNC Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ on Wednesday night.
Opening for Boy George were Howard Jones and Berlin which were the perfect setup, getting the audience in the mood as we were all thrown back to the 1980’s.
Howard Jones, the British synth-pop legend known for his trailblazing music in the 1980s, transported the audience on a captivating journey through time with a blend of classic hits and modern adaptations.
Jones performed classics like “Things Can Only Get Better” and “Life in One Day” which resonated with the audience, evoking fond memories of their youth. Perhaps one of the most touching moments of the evening was when Jones performed “No One Is to Blame.” The audience swayed in unison, moved by the heartfelt lyrics and the enduring message of hope and forgiveness. But it wasn’t all about reliving the past. Jones demonstrated his artistic growth by introducing new arrangements and reimagined versions of some songs, showcasing his musical evolution without losing the essence of the originals.
Following Howard Jones was the iconic Terri Nunn, frontwoman of the legendary band Berlin. With a career spanning decades and a voice that still resonates powerfully, Terri delivered a captivating performance that reminded us all why she remains an enduring figure in the music industry. From the very first note, it was evident that Terri’s voice had lost none of its power or allure. Her voice soared effortlessly through the venue, hitting high notes with precision and resonating with raw emotion. Nunn’s ability to convey both vulnerability and strength within her vocal delivery was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Terri and the band curated a setlist that catered to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Classics such as “Take My Breath Away” (of Top Gun fame) and “The Metro” elicited thunderous applause and sing-alongs from the crowd. Nunn also treated the audience to some newer material, demonstrating her continued creative evolution as an artist.
After Berlin, as the lights dimmed and the eager crowd settled into their seats, a wave of anticipation washed over the venue. The stage came alive with a burst of color and energy as Boy George and Culture Club gracefully made their entrance. It was a moment that transported the audience back to the iconic 1980s, a time when their music had captured the hearts of millions. This live performance was set to be a night of nostalgia and celebration of a band that continues to captivate audiences with their unique style and unmistakable talent.
The opening chords of “Next Thing Will Be Amazing” reverberated through the venue, instantly igniting the atmosphere. Boy George, the enigmatic front-man, looked as vibrant as ever with his signature flamboyant outfit, adorned with his iconic hat and makeup. His voice was in top form, and it was evident that time had done nothing to diminish his vocal prowess. The audience, a diverse mix of generations, sang along with fervor, proving that the songs of Boy George and Culture Club have truly transcended time.
Throughout the evening, the band delivered hit after hit, each song accompanied by incredible musicianship and contagious energy. From the groovy beats of “Karma Chameleon” to the heartfelt balladry of “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me,” the band had the crowd dancing, swaying, and emotionally engaged all at once. Beyond the undeniable chemistry between Boy George and Culture Club, the supporting musicians were outstanding, enhancing each song’s depth and adding their own flair to the performance. The saxophone was particularly impressive, adding a soulful touch to the band’s already eclectic sound.
Boy George’s magnetic presence on stage was captivating, as he effortlessly interacted with the audience, always with a smile, sharing stories and anecdotes between songs, speaking to the audience to “Let it Go” on this night, “relax, forget your troubles and enjoy the music that surrounds you”. His humor and wit had everyone laughing, creating an intimate atmosphere that made the audience feel like they were part of a special gathering rather than just spectators at a concert. He celebrated how long the band has been playing together and joked that “they didn’t break up for 4 years, they just didn’t talk each other”.
One of the standout moments of the night was their rendition of “Time (Clock of the Heart),” which left many in the audience teary-eyed and moved. Boy George’s emotional delivery and the band’s heartfelt performance struck a chord with fans, reinforcing the timeless quality of their music and its enduring emotional impact. It was a special time to see a live show as tributes were made to the recent passing of Sinéad O’Connor, as well as Mick Jagger’s 80th (Yes 80!!) birthday, sighting that “the music will keep you young” as he went into a rendition of the Rolling Stones, “Sympathy for the Devil”.
As the concert reached its climax, the unmistakable intro of “I’ll Tumble 4 Ya” had the entire venue on its feet, dancing and celebrating the night away. Boy George and Culture Club had created a time warp that brought the audience back to the ’80s, and yet the magic of their music felt just as fresh and relevant as it did decades ago.
Boy George and Culture Club proved once again why they remain an iconic force in the music industry. Their live performance was a testament to their artistry, showmanship, and ability to bridge generations through their timeless music. The night was a celebration of nostalgia, love, and the enduring impact of a band that continues to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of their fans.
For more info please visit http://www.boygeorgeandcultureclub.net http://www.berlinpage.com http://www.howardjones.com