With seven nominations in six categories, the 2009 Aria Awards looked to be the night for Jessica Mauboy. But the teen sensation walked away with just one gong for Highest Selling Single, leaving Empire of the Sun to shine the brightest; the eclectic duo taking out four awards including Album and Single of the Year, Best Group and Best Pop Release. Luke Steele performed ‘Walking On A Dream’ with an array of dancers, thanking his invisible partner Nick Littlemore in his interesting acceptance speeches.
Keith Urban made the trip downunder to open the night with ‘Kiss A Girl’ but lost out to Troy Cassar-Daley in the Best Country Album category.
Indie darling Sarah Blasko took out the Best Female Artist award following a performance with two of her fellow nominees, Kate Miller-Heidke and Lisa Mitchell. With each female taking a corner of the arena to perform her biggest hit in succession, this three part performance was a highlight of the night. Having enjoyed success overseas through various collaborative projects, it was Daniel Merriweather’s debut solo album that got him noticed in his home country, and won him his first Aria for Best Male Artist.
Despite earlier controversy about her eligibility, New Zealand born Sydney resident Ladyhawke dazzled the audience with a performance of ‘My Delirium’ before taking out both Breakthrough Artist Album and Single. Hilltop Hoods won Best Urban Release and bought a touch of the circus to their performance of ‘Chase That Feeling.’ Though they went home empty handed, newcomers The Temper Trap put on a fantastic performance of their track ‘Sweet Disposition’, confirming they are an act to watch. Radio favourites Hamish and Andy took out Best Comedy Release, commenting their album was just ‘chopped up bits of a radio show’.
It’s a long way to the top if you want to rock and roll. But AC/DC have showed they still have it, accepting awards for Best Rock Album and Highest Selling Album via a video message from overseas.
While the Aria’s celebrate the best in Australian music, it was sheer star power that blinded Acer Arena when Robbie Williams took to the stage to sing ‘Bodies’. Robbie commanded the crowd and held them in his hand without the help of back up dancers or props.
Presenters included the welcome return of Missy Higgins, newcomer Orianthi, Powderfinger, Vanessa Amorosi, Natalie Bassingthwaite, Rove and Jimmy Barnes.
Other winners included Bertie Blackman (Best Independent Release), Josh Pyke (Best Adult Contemporary Album), The Presets (Best Dance Release), Sia (Best DVD Release), The Wiggles (Best Children’s Album) and C.W. Stoneking (Best Blues and Roots Album).
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