Author: Simon Mercep

Avengers Endgame: big and bold and it pays off

Howls of laughter. Shrieks of delight. Gasps of surprise. And quiet moments when you could hear a tear fall. All these reactions were forthcoming from the eager throng I sat amongst who were soaking up Avengers Endgame. The audience’s expectations…

AVALANCHE CITY – all about a love song that’s not a love song

Dave Baxter — Avalanche City

New Zealand music act Avalanche City is about to release its third studio album, My Babylon, on February 22. Simon spoke to its creator and sometimes sole performer, Dave Baxter, about songwriting, some surprising musical influences, and about the album’s…

Lily Allen, Auckland, February 2 – She’s sharp, and likeable

Lily Allen presented a pared down show which put the spotlight absolutely on her. There was nowhere to hide. Not that she cared, for this confident and relaxed performer surely wanted no distractions. This concert was all about her songs,…

GREEN BOOK – a feel good assault on racism

Green Book is a hugely entertaining movie, with two lead characters worlds apart at the start of the story and, unsurprisingly, considerably closer by the end. Those actors, Mahershali Ali and Viggo Mortensen, offer utterly engaging performances and the most…