Live at Paraoa Brewing Co.
8 February 2025
Live Review by Music Journalist: Paul Marshall
Annie Crummer Lights Up the Stage with Humour, Heart, and Kiwi Classics
Annie Crummer doesn’t just perform—she holds court. Taking the stage with an effortless charisma that few can match, the legendary New Zealand vocalist delivered a set brimming with soul, warmth, and the kind of off-the-cuff humour that makes a live show truly unforgettable.
From the moment she launched into her second song of the night, the infectious "What’s the Time Mr. Wolf," the audience was locked in, swaying to the rhythm of a performer who has mastered the art of both commanding and connecting. Crummer’s voice—rich, soulful, and timeless—filled the room, proving that she’s lost none of the vocal magic that made her a household name.
Midway through her set, she took a moment to acknowledge the opening band, Halo, showering them with well-earned praise before turning her attention to the main act of the evening, Mark Williams. Beaming with excitement, she confessed to the audience, "I am so beside myself, you will have to hold me back as I might act stupid." The crowd roared with laughter, soaking in her unfiltered enthusiasm and genuine love for her fellow musician.
Then came the moment of playful mischief. As she prepared to introduce a Dave Dobbyn classic, she teased the audience with a perfectly timed joke: "Dave is waiting in the wings to come onto stage… Nah, just kidding! You couldn’t afford to be here tonight if Dave was over there!" Cue another wave of laughter before she playfully doubled down: "So I’ll just be his little bitch and sing one of his songs." It’s this kind of no-holds-barred humour that makes a Crummer show feel less like a performance and more like a party where everyone’s invited.
But beyond the wit and charm, what truly stood out was the sheer joy radiating from the stage. Crummer is an artist who has clearly lived, loved, and continues to revel in the beauty of music and connection. Her set was a reminder of why she remains one of New Zealand’s most beloved performers—a woman whose voice, presence, and spirit refuse to be dimmed.
By the time she took her final bow, the audience wasn’t just entertained; they were uplifted. And that, in the end, is what live music is all about.
Reviewer: Paul Marshall
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