Accompanied for the first time ever in Singapore by a symphony orchestra, our very own Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts Orchestra, Jeff serenaded us with his popular songs as well as some new songs from his yet to be released album. There are no fancy footworks and dance moves but Jeff's vocal powers and unique voice quality never fails to impress and is the most inspiring reason for me to go to his concert.When he first appeared on stage, he spotted a lop-sided hairstyle with curly fringe. Quite 'beng' actually, but because he's a celebrity and my idol, he gets away with trying to look 'different'. He still looks dashing....(*dreamily*) Over 2 hours, he changed about 6 costumes. Nothing too outrageous, mainly pants, suit sets with shimmery highlights, in line with the artistic theme. From my binoculars, he appeared to be not that tall in person.
The stage setup was very classic looking. 3 gigantic picture frames set against velvet curtains formed the backdrop. Throughout the evening, classic art paintings starting from the Renaissance age were flashed through the 3 frames, making it look like an art gallery. The orchestra set in front of the backdrop, amidst changing ambient lightings. The only setback, I 
feel, is the venue. The Max Pavillion is not built as a concert theatre, thus it does not do justice to the orchestra music which would have sounded much better had it been at the Esplanade or Victoria Concert Hall. But as Hubby pointed out, this type of concert, the organisers would have to max the ticket sales to make money. The turnout that one night was at least five thousand, who would compromise this money making business by holding it at smaller venues for sake of better sound quality?
feel, is the venue. The Max Pavillion is not built as a concert theatre, thus it does not do justice to the orchestra music which would have sounded much better had it been at the Esplanade or Victoria Concert Hall. But as Hubby pointed out, this type of concert, the organisers would have to max the ticket sales to make money. The turnout that one night was at least five thousand, who would compromise this money making business by holding it at smaller venues for sake of better sound quality?Combined with artistic paintings in the backdrop, the overall result is a very cultured blend of pop and symphonic music. I can't say the same for the audience though. Many of the audience showed up for the concert in bermudas and slippers. They looked like they've just finished dinner at the hawker center and are going across the street to watch 'getai'. Besides arriving late, they also move around to go toilets when the concert is ongoing. That's pretty rude and distracting for the other concert goers as well as the performers. Sigh...Singaporeans....
Jeff was pretty concerned with the lukewarm response from the audience. He was trying very hard to work up some cheering but it was only towards the end that the audience 'woke up'. Well, Jeff, if I were you, I wouldn't worry too much. The people who love your songs will love you for your singing. We may not jump onto our seats to dance along, especially since the setup of the concert is so 'cultured', but we're enjoying ourselves nonetheless, singing along with you at our seats.
