QUEEN: It’s a Kinda Magic delivered an electrifying performance that lit up Swan Hill Town Hall last Wednesday night.
From the glam-rock anthem Killer Queen to the stomping bass-drum intro of We Will Rock You, the band commanded attention from the very first note; and deserved every bit of it.
Front and centre was Warren Vernon Driscoll, channelling Freddie Mercury with uncanny precision.
Playing both piano and guitar, he delivered every lyric in Mercury’s original key with effortless flair.
Backed by immaculate guitar solos, soaring harmonies, and perfectly recreated lighting and effects, the show transformed the historic art deco venue into something more like Madison Square Garden.
The band’s meticulous attention to detail and dynamic stage presence transported the audience back to 1986, faithfully recreating Queen’s iconic world tour; complete with authentic costumes, lighting, and all the hits.
Though it’s impossible to truly replace Queen, Nyah West resident Emma Ahearn said this tribute comes impressively close.
“Nobody can be Queen, but this tribute is as close as you can get,” she said.
“They pulled it off with real fun and flair.”
She said Driscoll didn’t just mimic Freddie; he embodied him.
“Warren as Freddie was spectacular,” she said.
“He really made me believe I was watching Freddie Mercury.
“He engaged with the crowd and got us all up dancing and singing.”
She added that the rest of the band were spot-on too.
“The lead guitarist and bass player were phenomenal, they all gelled perfectly,” Ms Ahearn said.
“They harmonised and supported each other just like the original Queen.”
One of the night’s most memorable moments was I Want to Break Free.
“During I Want to Break Free, Freddie (Warren) came out dressed in drag; just like in the music video,” she said.
“He had a lot of fun with it, even messing with some of the crowd in the front.
“It was really entertaining.”
Bohemian Rhapsody was another highlight.
A song Queen rarely performed in full live due to its complexity, the band handled its shifting dynamics; from quiet introspection to full-rock glory; with care and control.
The critically acclaimed, gospel-inspired Somebody to Love also had the crowd singing along, delivered with soulful energy and emotional depth.
Whether you’re a die-hard Queen fan or just love a big night of classic rock, Ms Ahearn said the show is unmissable.
“Honestly, they nailed it. It really felt like watching Queen live,” she said.
“This show is a must-see. If they return, I’ll be there.”
Ms Ahearn also praised the efforts of the front and back-stage crew.
“The Town Hall did an amazing job,” she said.
“The lighting and sound was perfect.”
