Paul McCartney wows Australia before heading here

Paul McCartney plays Auckland's Mt Smart stadium on Saturday, 16 December 2017. Photo: MPL Communications Ltd/Photographer: MJ Kim NZH 07Dec17 -

Maybe they're amazed? If all the glowing reviews rolling in of Sir Paul McCartney's Australian tour are anything to go by then yes, they most certainly are.

The legendary muso and ex-Beatle has left audiences floored with his three hour, 40 song set, which is being described as "epic" and "a musical experience like few others" in the Australian press.

The Sydney Morning Herald awarded last night's show 4.5 stars and dismissed any fears that McCartney was simply phoning it in.

"Best of all, the show proves much more than an ageing rock star turning up, cashing in and helping a few thousand people with their bucket lists. By the end, it genuinely turns out to be a musical experience like few others."

The culture website junkee.com backed up the sentiment writing, "he uses some of our most-loved songs to create amazing, shared experiences."

Paul McCartney on stage during his OneOnOne tour 2017

Themusic.com.au said, "Paul McCartney surpasses expectations," and described his performance of Beatles classic Let It Be as a "heavenly experience".

"There were hits being dished out in every direction, but McCartney still found time to deliver anecdotes and trivia, giving certain songs deeper meaning and keeping the three-hour gig fresh."

The HeraldSun said the show gave them "countless goosebumps," while McCartney also demonstrated the correct way to use pyrotechincs.

"You keep it for one song, Live and Let Die, and then basically blow the minds (and eardrums) of the venue and surrounding neighbourhoods."

Meanwhile musicinsight.com.au wrote," There are inevitably some cracks appearing in McCartney's voice, but he's got more energy than most 30-year-olds, and genuinely looks like he's still having fun. This sure felt like a once-in-a-lifetime show, but hey – tomorrow never knows."

When the Herald's entertainment magazine TimeOut spoke to McCartney last Thursday for our in depth cover story he joked, "We're practicing on the Aussies, getting up to speed."

It certainly sounds like all his practice has paid off, but we'll get a chance to see for ourselves this Saturday night.

* Paul McCartney plays Mt Smart Stadium this Saturday night. Tickets available from Ticketmaster.