Human Nature presented by Smokey Robinson

Four harmonious Australian hunks; one Motown legend; a larger than average dollop of “doo-wop”, and a set-list that exposes modern Motown compilation albums for what they really are – stab in the dark jumbles, with some very weak fillers. The show's label might accentuate Mr. Smokey Robinson (the widely accepted “King of Motown”), however Human Nature are most definitely show stealers in their own right.

Human Nature's association with “First Man of Motown” emerges from a Sony-backed invitation to the star, while the Australian super-group were busily recording their 2007 album “Get Ready”. Coincidentally, this was also the title of Smokey Robinson's lyrical feat, that became a timeless classic for The Temptations. Allegedly, the Aussie foursome accredited with bringing modernity to Motown, sang an á Capella version of Smokey's chart-topping “Oo Baby Baby” in the 'twist your arm' hope of getting the green light for recording rights to “Get Ready”. What followed, was an unprecedented partnership between the musical entities – highlights of which include Smokey accompanying Human Nature on the Australian leg of their “Get Ready” tour.

“Smokey Robinson Presents Human Nature” stays true to the pulls no punches idiom from the intro, as Smokey himself revs up audience expectation and gets them “bubbling like a fine wine”. In his rare absence, audiences are treated to a retrospective documentary played out over large video screens, in which Smokey recalls how he became affiliated with “the Aussie's who would have set a competitive bar [even for me] back in the day”. Backed by a fully kitted out 6-piece big band, the show promptly commences an audio-visual step back in time as Human Nature take to the stage.

Suited in matching blue dinner jackets and steam-pressed slacks, the dynamic quartet (comprising of Toby Allen, Phil Burton, Andrew and Michael Tierney) are more than dressed for the occasion. They've even got the slicked hair fashions of the 60's and 70's down to a tee. As if in preparation for the host of dance-able numbers to follow, the show tends to find it's feet with “Stop In The Name Of Love” as the opener – the guys encouraging an entire 600-capacity room of guests to find their legs, and learn some signature Motown moves.

Contrary to popular belief, Human Nature aren't new to the entertainment business – they're just new to Las Vegas. It's perhaps a little surprising when you learn they've been together for 18 years, and courted publicity for four multi-platinum albums (in Australia.) The U.S may not be fully up to speed with this nouveau Motown band, but they haven't exactly been reclusive on the American scene. The “Madame of Motown” Martha Reeves organized a civic ceremony to welcome the boys to Detroit (where the great foundations of Motown were laid). Following a tentative a Capella rendition of “Tracks of My Tears” to a reception of predominantly Afro-Americans (most of whom were there the first time around), the lads were awarded the “Spirit of Detroit Award” for “reviving the sound of Motown Detroit”.

Often likened in sound to the The Four Tops, Human Nature defy expectation (despite this being a cover show) never lingering upon the hits of one artist. It's more of a chop and change schedule, with the likes of “Reach Out I'll Be There”, transitioning to the a Capella performance of “Tracks of My Tears” that swung it in Detroit. “Baby I Need Your Loving” á la the Four Tops gets an uncanny airing, as does that classic R 'n' B Marvin Gaye medley “I Heard It Through The Grape Vine”. The harmonious duetting between brothers Andrew and Michael Tierney, takes “Grapevine” to truly bluesy heights – a truly unique take, on a timeless song.

Integral to the flow of the show, is the consistent simplicity of the production. From David Rudder's creative replication of a 70's stage, to the spot-lighting implementation by lighting director Yves Aucoin (whom has also worked upon Cirque de Soleil productions.) Many audiences who enjoyed the great Motown voices live the first time around, are in agreement that Human Nature deliver a nostalgic set. There could be nowhere more appropriate than the Imperial Palace Hotel Resort – itself a time-capsule venue, oozing vintage Vegas appeal. Whether or not you are a fan of the Motown genre, Human Nature drive a faultless time-bus back to an era when vocal harmonies truly dominated music – surely a must see for any self-confessed lover of R'n'B!