Rufus Wainwright - Melbourne

If you've ever been promised the world dear reader; here's the next best thing. An intimate evening of solo splendour with the devastating Rufus Wainwright - featuring nothing more than a grand piano, a folder full of rich, thoughtful songs, and that voice.

The passing away of his mother and "greatest admirer and critic", legendary folksinger Kate McGarrigle, in January this year, and the enduring admiration for his sister, folk-rocker Martha Wainwright, are themes that pervade much of Rufus Wainwright's breathtaking sixth studio album: ‘All Days Are Nights: Songs For Lulu'.

This is an album steeped in beauty, with hugely personal and deeply emotional songs, each channeled through Wainwright via only his fingers, voice and piano. A perfect precursor then for this hugely anticipated Australian solo tour.

In a message to his Australian fans, Rufus Wainwright said: "Its great to be back in Australia. This year has been the toughest yet for me and my family with the passing of my amazing mother Kate McGarrigle, and I'm definitely in need of some sweet down under sun and smiles. Though it may appear at the outset that my new album and show are quite dark, don't be alarmed, I'm no fool and will always make sure to ensure a well rounded evening: be prepared to laugh as well as cry your little eyes out. Love Rufus."

Audiences can expect music drawn from his entire career alongside the new record which features the arresting ‘Who Are You New York?', Wainwright's ode to the city; the beautiful ‘Martha', a spare and powerful track named for his sister; ‘Les Feux d'artifice t'appellent' - the final aria from his debut opera ‘Prima Donna'; and ‘Zebulon', a majestic song about one of Wainwright's high school sweethearts.

Reactions from fans and critics alike have been universally positive. About All Days Are Nights: Songs For Lulu, Q Magazine has said, "It's a flabbergasting, intense album that demands intense listening." While All Music Guide agreed the record is "a bold, absolutely emotionally naked statement that retains Wainwright's devastating talent for artful, universally compelling songcraft."

Do not delay in securing your tickets for this very special concert delivered by the man Elton John calls "the greatest songwriter on the planet." If the 2008 Rufus Wainwright Australian tour is anything to go by - his return in 2010 will no doubt be the absolute musical highlight of your calendar year!