Nocturne Live 2024 - Crowded House, Sheryl Crow and Turin Brakes - Live Review

On Sunday, June 16, 2024, Nocturne Live at Blenheim Palace wrapped up its summer concert series with a spectacular evening featuring Crowded House, Sheryl Crow, and Turin Brakes. The final night was a celebration of diverse musical styles, from folk-rock to pop, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Britain’s most iconic stately homes.

Blenheim Palace, with its majestic baroque architecture and sprawling gardens, once again proved why it’s the perfect setting for Nocturne Live. The historic estate’s grandeur and natural beauty created an atmosphere that felt both intimate and awe-inspiring.

The weather couldn’t have been better for the final night. Clear skies and mild temperatures made for a comfortable evening, and as the sun set, the palace and its grounds were bathed in a warm, golden light that added to the magic of the event. It was the kind of evening that felt tailor-made for live music.

Nocturne Live isn’t just about the music - it’s about the full experience. The food stalls offered a tempting selection of fried chicken and noodle dishes, catering to a variety of tastes. Whether you were enjoying crispy, flavorful fried chicken or diving into a bowl of stir-fried noodles or ramen, the culinary offerings added to the festive atmosphere.

The bars were well-stocked as always, serving craft beers, fine wines, and refreshing cocktails. For those looking to unwind with a drink in hand, there was no shortage of options to complement the evening’s performances.

The night began with Turin Brakes, whose blend of folk and indie rock provided a relaxed and heartfelt opening to the evening. Known for hits like Painkiller and Save You, the duo’s harmonious vocals and melodic tunes resonated beautifully with the audience.

Their performance felt intimate and genuine, setting a laid-back tone that allowed the crowd to ease into the night. Turin Brakes’ ability to connect with the audience through their music made them the perfect act to kick off the final night of Nocturne Live.

Next up was Sheryl Crow, who brought her signature mix of rock, pop, and country to the stage. Her set was a masterclass in crowd-pleasing, featuring classics like All I Wanna Do, If It Makes You Happy, and Soak Up the Sun.

Sheryl’s charismatic stage presence and powerful vocals had the audience singing along enthusiastically to every song. Her ability to balance energy and emotion made her performance a standout of the evening. At one point, she joked with the crowd, encouraging them to keep the energy high - and they didn’t disappoint.

Sheryl Crow’s enduring talent and broad appeal were on full display, reminding everyone why she’s remained a beloved figure in music for decades.

The headliners, Crowded House, closed the night - and the series - with a stunning two-hour performance that felt like a celebration of their illustrious career. Led by Neil Finn, the band delivered a set packed with iconic songs, including Don’t Dream It’s Over, Something So Strong, and Weather With You.

Neil Finn’s emotive vocals and the band’s impeccable musicianship created a deeply moving experience for the audience. Their ability to balance heartfelt ballads with upbeat anthems kept the crowd engaged throughout the set.

Crowded House also knew how to interact with the audience, blending their music with moments of connection that made the performance feel personal. With a back catalogue as rich as theirs, it’s easy to wow a crowd—but the band’s dynamic energy and genuine warmth elevated the experience even further.

The final night of Nocturne Live at Blenheim Palace was a perfect conclusion to a remarkable series of concerts. From Turin Brakes’ heartfelt opening to Sheryl Crow’s energetic set and Crowded House’s stunning finale, the evening showcased the immense talent and diversity of the lineup.

The combination of the stunning venue, ideal weather, delicious food, and unforgettable performances made for an evening that will be cherished by all who attended. As the final notes of Don’t Dream It’s Over echoed across the grounds, it was clear that Nocturne Live had once again delivered a magical experience.

Next year marks the 10th anniversary of Nocturne Live, and if this year’s series is anything to go by, the celebrations will be nothing short of spectacular. Fingers crossed for another outstanding lineup to mark the milestone!