It is an absolutely stunning venue, situated next to the Two Oceans Aquarium, with a brilliant view of the magnificent icon that is Table Mountain and the glamorous waterfront harbour surrounded by posh hotels. Whoever came up with the bright idea deserves much more than a pat on the back. The stage, set to host a list of top South African acts, floats in the harbour and the venue is able to accommodate 2000 people.
And it seemed like just fewer than 2000 people turned up to see The Parlotones with barely a seat left empty. The band, while experiencing a few hiccups here and there, put on a spectacular performance as usual. This is what makes them one of SA's rock treasures - they come out and deliver an awesome performance every single time.
Kahn Morbee, the spirited front-man has dance moves like no other and clearly enjoys entertaining the band's fans. Their music is so delightful and at times so emotional that it really pulls at your heartstrings as you relate their songs to your own life.
They played vintage material including Lisa se Klavier, Colourful and Overexposed as well as their Here Comes A Man cover which gets the audience jumping to their feet no matter the venue. Songs off the second album, A World Next Door to Yours, included Bird in Flight, Baby Be Mine, Honey and Human. We were introduced to new songs off their latest offering - Stardust Galaxies which already sound like hits in the making.
While it is a seated venue, fans happily got involved by standing and dancing and clapping along with plenty of stomping in the stands; I doubt anyone left disappointed.
Everyone who loves music and appreciates a fantastic performance should make the effort of catching The Parlotones live. You should also definitely make a plan to see one of the acts at this spectacular venue - from the luminescent lighting to the great sound quality - it was perfect.
Tonight features Cape Town's afro-fusion outfit, FreshlyGround - another great band to be proudly South African about.
For the full line-up, read Aqua Festival for Cape Town's harbour.
