Bernard Fanning to Celebrate 20 Years of ‘Tea & Sympathy’ with Special Show

## Bernard Fanning Celebrates 20 Years of *Tea & Sympathy*

Bernard Fanning has announced an exciting one-off performance to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his debut album, *Tea & Sympathy*.

The renowned five-time ARIA Award winner will host this special event at Brisbane’s Queensland Performing Arts Centre on October 31st. This concert will also support the charity Youngcare, an organization Fanning has passionately supported over the years.

### A Shift in Musical Direction

*Tea & Sympathy* represented a significant transformation in Fanning’s musical journey after Powderfinger went on hiatus in 2004. Recorded the following year, he steered away from the band’s traditional rock vibes, opting for a more folk and blues-inspired approach.

The album features memorable tracks such as “Songbird” and “Wish You Well,” the latter achieving recognition by being ranked #57 on triple j’s Hottest 100 of Australian Songs. The triple-platinum album garnered multiple ARIA Awards, including Album of the Year, Best Cover Art, and Best Video, while Fanning was honored as Best Male Artist.

### A Full Circle Moment

Fanning expressed his excitement regarding the upcoming performance at QPAC, considering it a “full circle moment” owing to his previous engagements at the venue during the album’s tour.

“I’m so proud to celebrate this record. I really had no expectations for it to be anything but a little side project to keep me busy while Powderfinger was on a break,” he reflected.

He also shared insights about “Wish You Well,” indicating that despite its upbeat facade, the themes of heartbreak resonate deeply with listeners.

> “The songs came from such a raw and honest place,” Fanning noted. “A whistleable melody and a bit of toe-tappin’ never hurt anybody either.”

### Join in on the Celebration

“Come and sing along with us and help support Youngcare,” he encouraged his fans.

In conjunction with the concert, Fanning will also release a special 20th-anniversary edition of *Tea & Sympathy* on vinyl and CD. “There’s a whole other record’s worth of songs here that go with the original album. Some outtakes, demos, and fabulous covers of my tunes by other artists,” he revealed.

### A Return to Simplicity

In a world filled with distractions, Fanning expressed a desire to return to simplicity and warmth. The special edition is set to be released on October 31st through Universal Music Australia.

Pre-sale tickets for the concert will be available through QPAC and Fanning starting 9 AM on August 14th, with general sales opening the following day.

Are you excited to celebrate this milestone with Bernard Fanning?