The Burton Cummings Theatre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, was abuzz with anticipation on June 27, 2024, as fans gathered to see Australian singer-songwriter Ziggy Alberts and his special guest, Garrett Kato. The historic venue provided a perfect setting for an evening of soulful, acoustic-driven music that left the audience spellbound.
The night began with a heartfelt performance by Garrett Kato, whose warm and inviting stage presence immediately captivated the crowd. Kato, known for his emotive songwriting and smooth vocals, performed a set that included fan favourites and tracks from his latest album. His acoustic renditions, backed by subtle harmonies and intricate guitar work, set a relaxed yet intimate tone for the evening. Kato's set was full of mesmerizing songs, which resonated deeply with the audience, earning enthusiastic applause and setting the stage for the main act.
Garrett Kato. All photos by Samuel Stevens.
Ziggy Alberts took to the stage with an air of calm confidence, opening with "Days In The Sun." From the first strum of his guitar, it was clear that the night would be a memorable one. Alberts' voice, rich and soothing, filled the theatre, drawing the audience into his world of introspective lyrics and beautiful melodies.
The setlist was a journey through Alberts' entire discography, seamlessly blending older hits with newer material. "Gone" and "Love Me Now" were early standouts, with Alberts' heartfelt delivery highlighting the raw emotion in his lyrics. The crowd swayed and sang along, creating a sense of unity and shared experience. A special moment in the night was the performance of "Runaway," where Alberts was joined by his opening act Garrett Kato. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their voices blended effortlessly, creating a magical atmosphere that had the audience enraptured. This collaborative performance was a testament to their close musical relationship and was a highlight of the evening.
Ziggy Alberts. All photos by Samuel Stevens.
Alberts' set continued his set with the tracks, "Outlaw" and "Stronger," showcasing his versatility as an artist. Whether strumming his guitar with fervour or gently plucking the strings, his performance was consistently captivating. "Heaven" and "Getting Low" offered quieter, more introspective moments, while "Don't Get Caught Up" and "Warm Coffee" brought a sense of warmth and familiarity to the room.
"Heartbeat" and "Simple Things" further emphasized Alberts' talent for creating songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. The audience was fully engaged, hanging on every word and melody.
After closing the main set with his song "Together," Alberts returned for an encore that began with the poignant tune, "Singing For Country." The song's message resonated deeply, creating a powerful connection between Alberts and his audience. "Hands" and "New Love" followed, both delivered with a sense of gratitude and passion that was palpable.
The night concluded with his hit song, "Laps Around The Sun," a fitting end to an evening that felt both timeless and fleeting. Alberts' ability to connect with his audience through his music was evident throughout the performance, leaving fans with a sense of fulfillment and a desire for more. Ziggy Alberts' concert at the Burton Cummings Theatre was a masterclass in intimate, heartfelt performance. His ability to convey deep emotion through his music, combined with the warm atmosphere of the venue and the excellent opening set by Garrett Kato, made for an unforgettable night. Fans left with their hearts full, having experienced a truly special evening of live music.