Tom Burlinson: Still Swinging with His Big Band
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https://www.tomburlinson.com.au/
Date Reviewed: 24/08/2025
I will be honest: I was not exactly sure who Tom Burlinson was when my partner and I made our way out to Nunawading to see Still Swinging. I know enough about vocal swing to appreciate that Tom brings real heart and is a real ambassador to the genre. My partner, on the other hand, needed a quick (and slightly sheepish) explanation from me that Ol’ Blue Eyes was Frank Sinatra's nickname.
One thing we agreed on immediately: the newly refurbished Round theatre is stunning. It feels made for a performer like Burlinson: seasoned, magnetic, and full of charm. Despite a serious injury that confined him to a chair, Tom delivered a vibrant and thoroughly engaging performance. Nothing about it felt held back.
Backed by a superb piano, drums, double bass and a powerful brass section - Tom led us through what he believes is the golden age of swing. He paid tribute to icons like Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, Sammy Davis Jr, and Bobby Darin, while also acknowledging modern torchbearers such as Harry Connick Jr and Michael Bublé
Tom made it clear early on that he is not an impressionist. Instead, he aims to channel the essence of each performer. While certain vocal moments come close to mimicry, his presence remains distinctly his own. He shares an easy rapport with his band and brings genuine affection for the music he sings.
Tom plays a setlist of classic swing hits, some of my personal favourites were probably, Just in Time, Beyond the Sea and Birth of the Blues. Also mixed in there include some Frank Sinatra classics that Tom plays wonderfully well. My favourite was definitely Mack the Knife.
Tom’s vocals were strong and sincere. Performing while recovering from injury added a quiet resilience to his presence. His dedication to the music and the audience was unmistakable. If swing speaks to you, this show will not just meet expectations, it will exceed them.
And yes, he closes with New York, New York: You are absolutely in safe hands.