roil

part 2 of tonights presentation of improvised music by sima
another eclectic lineup featuring chris abrahams on the piano
master noise-making bass-player mike majkowski in the middle
james 'pug' waples completing the lineup on drums and percussion
the trio are positioned tightly together in the middle of the stage
the piano repositioned stage right to suit chris abrahams style
his preference seemingly to have his back to other musicians
the first sign that this outfit is not your standard jazz trio
mr abrahams leading off with an introduction of the band
then heading off musically with his distinctive playing
fingers moving rapidly, gently and somehow uniquely
eyes left and mike majkowski already into it big time
not much noise but some very impressive actions
palm-scraping, finger-flicking, bow in and out
james waples now assuming an unfamiliar role
i have a lot of respect for him as a drummer of feel
all other times i have seen him there has been structure
tonight he's now playing with more experimental style
easily providing the percussive noises to suit this group
scraping cymbals, tapping or bashing anything in reach
an array of metal objects placed on drums and manipulated
dragged, tapped, brushed, dropped to create various sounds
some too close to fingernails on blackboards for our liking
but as mike majkowski also demonstrates - anything goes
his hands and arms moving at lightning speed pulling sounds
his bow in and out of it's holder sometimes used for one note
or a kazoo type instrument held in his mouth and blown
sometimes his voice used in unison with the bowed notes
producing a very harmonic and strangely beautiful sound
in the meantime chris abrahams trills away on the piano
his fingers moving rapidly - the rest of him motionless
me thinking he must be thoroughly enjoying this setting
his day job with the necks seeming so different to this
a sense of freedom and freshness with this outfit
and also obvious admiration for his peers tonight
at one point craning his neck to watch mr majkowski
again i think there were only 3 tunes played by the band
all improvised, all totally absorbing, all very well received
and given the previous bands efforts also totally unique
long live improvisation i say - in the hands of experts
now looking forward to the next sima presentation

3ofmillions

part 1 of a 2 part presentation of improvised music tonight
sima regularly putting on such shows at the sound lounge
3ofmillions are on first and surprisingly in front of a full house
which to me speaks volumes for the reputation they are forging
adrian klumpes on keyboards and gadgets a prolific composer
able cross on acoustic electric bass an eclectic performer
finn ryan on drums and percussion with talent to spare
at 17 (maybe now 18) he is primed for an exciting future
another front row seat is made available at start time
which means as it should be this is a visual and aural treat
in the first of 3 long tunes adrian klumpes is piano bound
the bank of gadgets ignored as the c7 demands attention
mostly rapid-fire playing with both hands used in unison
the love of playing clear on his downward concentrated face
though also clear admiration for his bandmates as they solo
finn ryan with an erect, fluid, hard-hitting confident style
long drum sticks flaying over cymbals his favourite sound
able cross in charge of a beautiful acoustic-electric bass
at times sounding like and played like a standard guitar
but always capable of providing seriously deep bass sounds
or warped through his effects boxes to sound entirely different
one impressive sound to live-loop a heavily distorted fuzzy riff
this the signal for the 3 of them to let fly with all in action
before dropping back to the lightest of touches from each
and a timely winding up of this totally unique piece of music
me sitting there thinking how absolutely relevant this all is
improvisation in the right (expert) hands is very exhilarating
and definitely to be savoured visually as much as aurally
2 more tunes of genre-defining glory with variety galore
one featuring some beautiful bass/keyboard harmonies
a momentary lapse in attack confirming anything goes
another laugh-out-loud moment provided by finn ryan
deliberately emptying a bag of goods from head height
shakers, sticks, bells, objects crashing through his kit
and not an eye-blink from him or his musical peers
a quick glance around to confirm an entranced audience
it's all over too soon and then some words of thanks
adrian klumpes taking the time for introductions
completing the fine performance most graciously
setting it nicely for part 2 of tonights show...

bernie mcgann quartet

bernie mcgann - the legendary local alto saxophone player
saw this outfit a few years back and made myself a promise
see them every time they play if it's in the same town as me
pretty well kept to that commitment and no disappointment
tonight they are on at the underground 505 club in surry hills
this place now pulling in performers held in the highest regard
again confirmed tonight with many local musos in the audience
but surprisingly the numbers are relatively low given his stature
the other surprise tonight is that there's been a change in lineup
regular player brendan clarke not here - replaced by ben waples
that's ok - mr waples has been seen many times since triosk days
(shameless plug for late, great no-longer sadly-missed fave band)
but tonight he is in the company of greatness - there's work to do
the most-reliable warwick alder is here also with trumpet in hand
andrew dickenson completing the quartet on drums and percussion
first tune and it's such a pleasure to hear their unique sound again
i doubt if there's a better harmonising trumpet and sax anywhere
just so light, yet tight, sweet, melodic, and very easy on the ears
no improvisation here - nor any sheet music - experts at work
every time i see bernie mcgann play i am in awe of his style
and i'm not the only one - there's young musos here tonight
sax players particularly looking on with clear admiration
which says it all really - this man commands serious respect
the tunes played tonight are long, loose, swinging and complex
the 2 brass players taking turns to play superb long solo passages
a couple of times stepping aside to let the rhythm guys have a go
andrew dickenson so good that he carries the tune on his drumkit
playing alone and the tune still there as he further augments it
ben waples taking the mostly subtle cues to also take the lead
similarly carrying the tune as he plays his bass in solo mode
and in the process totally dispelling any sense of the new boy
these guys are just so good so mannered and so together
no pa in this place so the sound is as pure as it gets
which had me thinking this is probably a throwback
bernie mcgann in particular looking most comfortable
he totally oblivious to the annoying chatter from the floor
happy to once again have his sax in hand and band with him
after the final note has been played there's genuine happiness
the quartet looking well satisfied with tonight's fine performance
jokes, smiles and laughter to me confirming all is good there
just a shame about the relatively small and noisy crowd
but there's some new fans i'm sure in the the fan club
me - also totally satisfied - happy to see them again
and equally now looking forward to the next time

barbara luna

sultry and sexy argentinian singer makes return visit
first and last seen at my first womadelaide in 2001
then appearing on stage with a damaged leg
the result of a hard landing from a skydive
but still delivering a couple of superb shows
she's been brought back for an adelaide festival
the promoter thankfully adding a show in sydney
this one at the never-before-visited carriageworks
a new venue inside the cavernous derelict railway workshops
so before showtime there's a sense of excitement in the air
especially with complimentary tickets at a front table
a most enjoyable set from local support act sorelle
4 (white) ladies doing sweet-honey-in-the-rock vocals
barbara luna's 4 piece band then on stage setting the scene
she runs on, picks up her ovation acoustic and away we go
first impressions - she looking as stunning as remembered
now i think probably delivering on the earlier promise
her stage presence demanding constant attention
not too mention her beautiful and clear voice
the lyrics - no idea - she sings in argentinian
but as with the best performers - no matter
it's the feel of the tunes that makes the difference
and this lady has feel to spare - most naturally
a few welcoming words at the end of the first tune
confirming her slight grasp on the english language
and then back into her comfort zone as performer
peeling off song after song of superbly played music
the versatile musicians changing instruments regularly
meaning the music easily changes in pace and feel
she does the singalongs as good as slow and sultry
a very professional show with lighting to match
close the eyes and listen to the voice a reward also
me thinking she has to be as good as anyone else
mariza comes to mind and this lady up there also
but i'm not sure the crowd tonight are with me there
it's quite a subdued audience reaction by and large
the obvious argentinians providing some encouragement
but despite best efforts she can't get too much action
the singalongs and call-and-response numbers a bit flat
sydney apathy seems to be out in force here tonight
result - she gives up talking and just keeps singing
excepting for the introduction of a bossa nova tune
a cover of a antonio carlos jobim song done superbly
sounding perfect in the hands of this band and this singer
me thinking that she could own that style on the big stage
it finally seemed to get the crowd cranked up also
and nicely placed at the end of the performance
meaning the demands for an encore were loud
then she come out to do a solo little wing
a stunning rendition of the hendrix number
though most memorably done by that sting chap
here tonight though - she just oozed sensuality
a classy performance from a classy lady
hope she comes back again soon

steve hunter's nine lives

there's a number of local musicians with influence
being that whenever they play it is worth checking
steve hunter on electric bass is one on that list
tonight he has at least 2 more in this lineup
phil slater on trumpet is like jazz royalty
matt mcmahon on piano held in similar regard
there's 9 of them in total in tonight's lineup
4 piece brass section and 2 piece percussion
guitarist, pianist and the man himself on bass
apparently they released an album 10 years ago
someone had the idea of reforming for a few shows
a full house suggesting they are well regarded
the opening number a long, orchestrated piece
all the musicians deferring to sheet music
steve hunter working hard as the conductor
with his bass guitar used most effectively
completely cementing and directing the sound
often pointed at another band member like a baton
directing musicians to take charge with a solo
the bass itself at times sounding like a tuba
a big, full, melodic sound dominating the music
no mean feat considering there's a big brass section
they themselves providing some great harmonies
it all seems to be working quite well musically
but being very close to the stage is revealing
for one phil slater is a very tired man tonight
suppressing yawns, trying to remain focused
dealing with irritations that niggle away at him
sheet music that just won't stay in place
a bass player swinging a bass just too close
the impression is he's here out of obligation
but admirably he does his very best for the band
ditto i suspect matt mcmahon on electric piano
these 2 the core of their own superb quartet
brought to mind as i look on at this combination
likewise ten part invention also now visualised
result - steve hunter's nine lives has work to do
but i suspect this combinations days are numbered
especially when steve hunter plugs his other combo
the slimmer, trimmer, better translators coming up
2 sets of complex music played admirably tonight
they pulled it off - but - not much more really
another case of rehearsal meets live performance
wing it, rely on skillsets and strong leadership
but hey - grateful once again for their presence
better to have an ok performance than none at all
just hope phil slater catches up on some sleep
charged up for next weeks second performance
chances are that it may be really, really good

angels and demons

i read the the da vinci code in the frenzy of it's release
but didn't see the film due to underwhelming demand
never got to read angels and demons so best see the film
some favourable reviews suggesting nothing too serious here
some good film-making, acting, directing and not a bad story
the film opens with some excellent documentary style footage
the pope has died and so we see in widescreen what seems real
rome in all it's glory, parading cardinals in red, mourning crowds
cut to an underground heavy-duty scientific centre in switzerland
the contrast very deliberate and presumably related to the title
some fascinating scenes depicting particle collision experiments
the intention to manufacture anti-matter for the very first time
particularly in light of such tests now being conducted in france
so it's a great start to the film with religion contrasting science
then the fiction kicks in - a murder and theft of the anti-matter
back to the vatican where 4 cardinals have been kidnapped
and so our hero professor langdon (tom hanks) is called in
he's an expert on the ancient cult group the illuminati
they have left a sign that indicates their involvement
seems they have finally decided to take their revenge
the catholic church having forced them underground
their scientific doctrine incompatible with the church's beliefs
and so they intend to kill the 4 cardinals and blow up the vatican
the hero-prof has about 5 hours to prevent murder and mayhem
this while the remaining cardinals are in their conclave for an election
all in all it's like the plot of a james bond movie - complete with the girl
langdon - robert langdon - accompanied by israeli stunner ayelet zurer
and typically she's gorgeous and intelligent - she created the anti-matter
so off to work he goes applying all his religious knowledge to the task
displaying some fine acting skills as he rattles off facts and figures
dashing all over rome and through the vatican chasing down clues
mostly just 1 step behind the baddies as they start assassinating
but midnight is the time the anti-matter bomb will explode
so there's a degree of suspense built into the plot as well
but each twist in the plot seems to add another level of silliness
i found myself laughing out loud (and alone) on several occasions
one when the main baddie is discovered and then sets himself on fire
the resultant (white) smoke finding it's way into the vatican chimneys
and then bringing huge cheers from the crowd - they waiting for that sign
but it's all tongue in cheek stuff i suspect from the director - ron howard
let's not take things too seriously - tell the story - get the message across
do it in an entertaining way but at the same time plant the seeds
get the audience thinking about science and religion today
no answers offered - and leaving each in it's place
so no need for hysterical back-lashes
just lots of bums on seats
...mission accomplished
or whatever bond says

damien dempsey

in the spirit of never say no to an invitation
combined with a curiosity about this performer
and a want to be part of the luminous festival
means that tonight it's a visit to the opera house
opening act the crooked string band set the scene
some rousing baltic-inspired string-based trad-tunes
then the main man is on stage alone and in the spotlight
that lovely dublin accent and humble attitude coming over
he comes armed with an acoustic guitar and heartfelt tunes
one tune in solo mode then the band is on stage and belting it
keyboards, electric guitar, drums and bass guitarist rocking it out
the volume cranked up with at least one person in front cowering
he may be the next christy moore, etc but phil lynott is in the mix
brought to mind with reference to the black irishman in the white house
the banter in-between tunes politically charged, informative and humorous
he holds his position centre front of the stage distanced from the band
one spotlight or another constantly on him - he's the star tonight
which is just fine for the audience of hard-core fans singing along
oh lord give me the strength to be strong and to be true
for the devil has got into my head and made me feel blue
one tune after another bringing shrieks of recognition
including some word for word accompaniment for colony
this song containing some spoken-word rap-style sermonising
400 years of anglo-saxon plundering the subject of this anthem
by which time i'm feeling decidedly exposed in my ignorance
but i quite easily get into the vibe and clap and sing along
he's only about 5 metres away from me as he urges us on
it all looks quite sincere and he is constantly praising us
he may be the man that takes ireland's music forward
but he's going to do it in a totally accessible way
rock – anthems – singalongs – love and respect
another tune had us all howling to love ourselves
very reminiscent of u2 stadium based anthems
no accident maybe with the edge being a big fan
so after 2 quick hours it's all over for the formalities
my ticket benefactor tonight securing entry to the party
so off to the the opera house's green room for some schmoozing
and lo and behold who should be there but festival curator brian eno
whoa – this is serious mum – i am in the presence of greatness
funny how a glass or 2 of red wine invokes self-confidence -
hello brian – just wanted to say thanks for all your music – hic
especially discreet music that i played recently at a friend's funeral – hic
and will you be in town on june 20 for some amazing improvised music – hic
how's the festival going by the way – are you enjoying it – hic
to his credit he also was very gracious and well - gentle
thanked me for my comments but no – heading to thailand on june 15
sorry guys – i tried to get him to the gig – i know he would have loved it
but anyway then a dash to the train for the mid-night journey
alas no trains tonight so onto the buses with the unruly mob
what a surreal night – opera house, brian eno, the hoi-polloi
pinched myself most of the way home i did
i just met brian eno – unbelievable
damien dempsey was good too
....a most enjoyable night

trio apoplectic

seems the stars have aligned for tonight's musical treat
favourite band laying it on at el trendo jazz venue on this night
previously visited on monday nights with large el trendo crowds
tonight it's the dedicated few (and a few more) for trio apoplectic
last seen launching their new cd titled sophia at the sound lounge
since then playing said cd on a daily basis out of pure indulgence
so anticipation of a new level of enjoyment coming with recognition
yep - opening tune sophia now lodged in the musical memory banks
as then and now thinking this tune could well belong to a jazz maestro
but no - it's their own - ownership, pride and skills setting a high standard
the trio tonight looking and sounding completely unified in their presentation
dave jackson particularly seen swinging on his alto sax like never betore
abel cross looking as intense and dedicated as he has always been
alex masso on drums for some reason now looking so integral
never any question about his sounds but visually it's working
throwaway line - it's the black t-shirt and the black background
now moving on - the music - they have gone up another notch
it may be my own level of familiarity but it's more than that
there is actually something quite pure about their sound
i say it's a combination of youth, skills and enjoyment
nothing at all to do with trying to aspire to anything else
with all due respect - a sense that many outfits are emulating
my impression is that trio apoplectic wouldn't know how to do that
out of a lineup of 3 there are 3 accomplished musicians and composers
and a sense that they can produce a quite unique and contemporary sound
but maybe hopefully further inspired as tonight by a respecting audience
we're not big in numbers but we're big in appreciation of their music
the end of sophia bringing loud applause of the sincere kind
and from there everyone is on a memorable musical journey
i for one looking on in wonder at the excellence of this trio
a sense that they are very well tuned into each other
tunes themselves played precisely and respectfully
but with enough looseness that each can be inventive
there's lots of room to breathe which keeps things fresh
nothing taken for granted here – they have rehearsed a lot
or else they do possess some connection sitting above all that
either way it is nothing less than exciting about where to from here
my humble opinion saying they are onto something unique
it may take a year or decade or 2 but it's going to happen
only a matter of time before they play at large festivals
my enthusiasm matched by my seated neighbours
visiting african-americans displaying serious approval
and the ultimate test – the audience totally attentive
a big call I suspect but tonight they oozed – sexy
hard to beat when that comes in a musical guise
shame it all had to come to an end on this night
but – love is in the air – more of that please...

quiet chaos

or in italian caos calmo - the opening subtitle is calm chaos
but all the publicity, reviews etc refer to it as quiet chaos
a moot point but by the end of it calm seemed better
the film opening on a beach in italy with 2 brothers
drawn in to the surf to rescue 2 women in trouble
then the drive back to their villa and more drama
pietro's wife has fallen and died during his absence
leaving him to care for their young daughter claudia
no real emotion shown by each other as they move on
father then finds some solace in sitting outside her school
he's a power-broker in a company about to be taken over
but this change in his life forces a re-think of priorities
other regular visitors to the park drawing his curiosity
his interest in corporate life seen waning at a similar rate
his work acquaintances, friends and family track him down
so plenty of people coming and going with their stories
and from this we learn more about him as a person
including why he is having trouble grieving for his wife
it all sounds quite inconceivable but how do we know
the suggestion being that grieving is a personal thing
no-one can or should determine how others should react
especially in this case where there are many complications
as each person provides support, advice and some secrets
thankfully his daughter is well protected and immune to all this
the relationship with her father and uncle keeping her safe
but something has to give as his life catches up with him
eventually in a quiet moment of quiet solitude he cracks
so his calm demeanour is finally and briefly lost in the chaos
sheds the tears possibly more for his past life than past wife
and symbolically resumes normal life with a torrid sex scene
this with one of the women he rescued also connected to his work
he then snares a new job courtesy of her ex-lover and his new boss
which is where this film lost me a bit - one coincidence too many
but overall i liked the possibility presented of a grieving man
unsure how to handle his grief but embracing those closest
and as it turns out his daughter is the one who saves him
she also symbolically advising him when all is well
and then life in rome returns to normal
snow falling - nice - a fresh start....

sandy evans trio

i doubt if there is a harder working musician than sandy evans
the bands she is a current and founding member of includes -
ten part invention, gest8, the catholics, snap and australysis
she teaches, guests, composes, plays and tours frequently
one day she will be the subject of a feature film or a book
certainly at least a cover story in the smh good weekend
and then everyone will finally get out and see her perform
but until then - there are about 20 of us at tonight's show
she's here tonight in trio mode with toby hall and brett hirst
i had the great fortune of seeing them only a month or so ago
as with all (but one) of her other groups - see them every time
a walk into an empty room and the trio are in final preparations
feeling a bit of an interloper as she runs them through the tunes
another reason to respect this performer - she respects us
she takes nothing for granted - least of all her audience
and sure enough when they fire up it's serious music
a long slow number demanding concentration from all
didn't catch the name but presumably another new piece
sandy evans being one of the most prolific composers around
but then it's back in familiar territory as the drone is fired up
and sandy then introduces a distinctly indian influenced tune
she says she has been studying indian music lately with difficulty
still trying to find her way in she says - could have fooled me
the influence clear to hear with sandy now on soprano sax
think snake-charmer and add in compatible percussion
as eastern sounding as is possible with drums/bass/sax
and then another change in direction with a jovial tune
leprechaun sam and his annoying frequencies - or something
a tune with lots of stop-start activity requiring skilled playing
there are various other tunes of equal impressive musicianship
sandy taking the time to announce and explain her sources
which is something i always enjoy about her performances
her talk is always informative and always cheerful and gracious
tonight in particular she is most grateful to us and her hosts
thankful for the opportunity to play for us at this venue
me thinking how lucky are we to see this trio intimately
they being in-demand internationally at large festivals
tonights show ending with some guests joining the trio
a violinist and 2 saxophone players now playing with them
sandy mostly looking on with pride as they make the most of it
i believe they are students of hers and they all do her proud
a rousing finale with the 6 of them playing long and loud
matching applause as the tune and performance winds up
all of us conscious that we have seen a great show
the band themselves obviously also happy
...another fine musical sunday night

tulpan

a cautious approach to this film from kazakhstan
various film-goers branding it as boring, worst-ever, etc
margaret and david much kinder and more influential
the film opens with the main character performing
trying to impress tulpan's parents with his sea stories
he exaggerating beyond belief, they bored witless
apparently she is not interested - his ears are too big
tulpan is never seen but remains central to the film
as askhat then resumes life at home on the steppes
he is staying with his sister, husband and young family
the eldest boy obsessed with his radio and the outside world
the middle child a girl with the need to sing at every opportunity
the youngest child a toddler constantly moving and hitting things
a lot of the film showing the father tending to his flock of sheep
the size of his herd a sign of his success in this barren place
but it's hard, unforgiving work - most lambs are stillborn
animals in a way taking a major role in this film
some hilarious scenes with some cavorting donkeys
and a camel that has followed a visiting vet for 100km
despairing with it's calf perched on his motorcycle's sidecar
a funny scene in itself and worthy of a single long take
many like this effectively showing the isolation of this place
sandstorms and even tornadoes frequent visitors as well
askhat has a friend with a ramshackle vehicle and some obsessions
mainly photos of women's breasts and the music of boney m
more hilarious scenes whenever boni visits in his jalopy
at one point me thinking it could be scene from mad max
totally unintentional i'm sure but similar characters and settings
the dilemma for askhat is that he cannot win the heart of tulpan
his sailor background not working and he is not a herdsman
and as such is held in disdain by his brother-in-law
though his sister loves him dearly - another sad moment
as askhat decides to leave with his friend to travel the world
some unforgettable scenes as he heads off in the dust
but he recognises the love of his sister and decides to stay
all in all a very simple storyline but that is the appeal
these people are leading very simple lives in this place
one heart-wrenching scene showing the birth of a lamb
the real deal here - nothing acted, faked or implied
we all hoping desperately it will be one that will survive
especially as it is askhat that has found it and has to assist
so a turning point in his own life as he passes this test
all very moving really - and so appropriate in the film
the whole experience of the entire film quite touching
anybody who found it boring is not looking very hard
there is so much going on - and also much to learn
me thinking this is how life is for a lot of people
leading simple lives in a harsh environment
we've got a lot to be thankful for...

state of play

film night tonight - down to a choice of 2
another bleak, sad, true, long, rated world war 2 flick
and a colourful, happy, fictional, brief, rated local rom com flick
having trouble deciding which way to go and then problem solved
at a nearby theatre is this latest russell crowe flick - state of play
as fate would have it i saw the man interviewed on tv last night
clean-shaven, hair-cut, suit-dressed on david letterman's show
doing the promo thing for this film and doing it very well
so i decide to go for the middle ground and see russell
the film is set in politics-infested washington d c
an opening sequence reminding me i'm in hollywood
there's car crashes, a chase, and a couple of shootings
cut to cal mcaffrey (crowe) the slob on the way to work
no effort spared telling us he's untidy, slovenly and uh-oh
country music blasting in his beat-up 1990 saab - so un-cool
but he's a reporter of the old vintage at the washington globe
well connected - mates with everyone - can pull favours
his college room-mate (of course) is now a congressman
taking on the evil empire of pointcorp (read blackwater)
the congressman's research assistant and lover has been killed
and so erstwhile reporter come detective mcaffrey is on the case
way too many plots and sub-plots to describe in this rave
but - surprisingly - it's all quite easy to keep up with it
which probably sees something for the director
or more so i think for how contemporary it all is
all manner of things going on that are close to reality
for one the replacement of journalism with e.g. blogging
the rise of the mercenary army another - i.e. blackwater
doing big things in iraq and afghanistan but warning bells
the real intention is to privatise homeland security - huge $
so i sat there thinking hooray for crowe, affleck and producers, etc
it's only a flick but good on america for letting this reality jolt out
bringing to mind a few interviews done with ben affleck
he previously an outspoken critic of george w bush
lately an outspoken supporter of barack obama
but also stating that the best he can do is act
use his skills, profile and beliefs to tell the story
but then hey it's just a story - and with a real motive
bums on seats for one and recoup the costs of production
russell crowe, ben affleck and helen mirren do not come cheap
but - value for money - they have all provided it here
it's a great contemporary yarn told convincingly
stand by and watch as the newspapers roll over
the closing scenes in the film reminding us of that era
the manufacturing process of broadsheets shown in detail
a sort of ode to days gone by with the new order now in
here's hoping their other warning does not come to pass
pointcorp - blackwater - a privatised army
gulp - this film sounds the bells
hope someone is listening....

the darts

excitement factor through the roof on this one
the 505 club's weekly email advising of this show
melbourne supremo trumpeter scott tinkler is in town
good enough - but teamed up with sydney supremo phil slater
add in the equally revered simon barker on drums and percussion
joined by highly respected local steve elphick on double bass
the thought of this combo in itself worth the price of entry
another full house for the 505 club this monday night
so i'm one of the floor-huggers but pillar-leaning
ready for shrieking dual trumpets to do their utmost
a quite gentle lead-in with phil slater shutting down the chatter
mr tinkler accepting the invitation and joining in and contrasting
the 2 best trumpet players in the land about to go exploring
bring it on i say - punishing and stabbing sounds is what i want
stage left and right 2 trumpets of similar looking vintage
held and played as though magnets of equal polarity
the first tune indicating what is likely to follow
the instruments not locking in harmonically
one occasionally shadowing the other as close as it gets
otherwise there's a sense of the surreal with their sounds
surely it is a rare thing to hear their equal in the same band
each trumpeter seeming to revel in the others inventiveness
each no doubt inspired by - but also complementing the other
a very slight nod from scott tinkler giving praise to phil slater
before he lets rip with some screaming stabs of sonic bliss
in the engine room simon barker is quietly stoking things
mostly with eyes closed as he himself soaks it all up
zoning in to add all manner of percussive noises
scraping and tapping cymbals, dragging drum on drum
a complete show in itself just watching his unique style
steve elphick seen by me for the first time improvising
his bass playing very deep and singular - then out with the bow
held low and flat and making the bass itself sound like a trumpet
phil slater seen blowing his trumpet but with air noise only
several minutes of this and a totally credible sound
convincing me this outfit is now riding this show big time
then all in with the 4 players obviously lost to the sound
it's not only us that realise this is a superb performance
5 or 6 pieces in total - all improvised - all outstanding
at one point me hoping they just keep playing
however it's all over before we know it
though there's a real charge in the air
everyone buzzing with excitement
including the many musicians in attendance
a great night for the audience, band and peers
the darts - hopefully this gathering not a once only

defiance

another second world war film on the big screen
this one has daniel craig on loan from james bond duties
it's also based on a book of a true story set in belarus
the film opens with what appears to be archival footage
some grainy black and white heart-wrenching scenes
jewish families being torn apart by the invading nazis
and then a smooth transition to panavision colour
2 brothers discovering the horror that has visited
all in their village massacred - including their parents
they head for the hills to avoid certain death themselves
apart from the nazis the local police are now anti-semitic
there's a bounty on offer for any jews that are reported
and so the scene is set for this sad but true story of survival
as the word spreads more jews turn to them for protection
in turn the brothers enlist the help of a russian resistance group
one brother zus (liev schreiber) wants to fight the germans
meanwhile tuvia (daniel craig) believes survival is paramount
and so the film neatly divides into 2 stories of the brothers
they angrily go their separate ways with tuvia now in charge
most of the film is spent with him and his burgeoning followers
digging in for the harsh winter of 1941 with little food and shelter
tempers flaring at times as hunger and sickness dominates
some pre-viewing reading had warned me to be prepared
various critics complaining about heavy-handed direction
lack of subtlety and hammering home of points mostly
which meant i was probably looking more than usual for fault
but all i found was a bit of unconvincing ensemble acting at times
scenes with a lot of the refugees involved mostly too rehearsed
bringing to mind on several occasions a feeling of live theatre
also at times the serious music score just too over-played
otherwise i was very moved by the story and the acting
daniel craig totally convincing in his role as king of the jews
biblical references not out of place in this desperate situation
but tuvia is not perfect - at times his actions quite confronting
leading me to thinking how would i react in his situation
no answer there - too much to contemplate really
after nearly 2 hours the film builds to a climactic finale
some very realistic war scenes as the germans track them down
tank shells and grenades exploding across the theatre's sound system
and it's brother zus to the rescue and another retreat into the woods
where they hid out for another 2 years while the war continued
as the credits rolled some photos of the brothers are shown
with a few more facts about their post-war lives
an astounding story of courage really
and done so well in this fine film

trio apoplectic (live)

casting the memory back to a friday night only 2 weeks ago
in this case being the random access memory found in the digital camera
take it to the show - take a few shots in rapid succession during 1 tune
then run the battery down in movie mode - who knows - it may be good
on this particular night trio apoplectic were in superb form
celebrating the release of their second album titled sofia
2 sets of music that had at least this fan spellbound
not alone though - a captivated audience throughout
full respect and attention as the tunes were played
loud and enthusiastic applause as they concluded
a very memorable night of music and a new cd in hand
a few quite ok photos taken of this young band at work
my musical intuition telling me they are the real deal
not following, leading, competing, honouring, needing
just pure music played with a sense of total freedom
total respect for the art itself and willing to explore
this coming through loud and clear in the new album
a collection of tunes sounding just so fresh
osmosis working as the album is repeat played
my feeling - with total prejudice of course
they will go as far and as wide as they desire
but - huh - lucky me - their first youtube clip
this one will appear in some future documentary
evidence of the band in their formative early years
left to right dave jackson able cross alex masso
trio apoplectic - see 'em while you can i say

constant in opal

ok - more of the church - best band in the world part 4
my own humble opinion of course but not alone at all there
5 star reviews rolling in consistently for their latest and greatest
so the stars have finally aligned to give this band deserved plaudits
if it wasn't for barack obama you'd hardly believe it was possible
but his election shows to go that good things can still happen
that despite all the bullshit, resentment and apathy
there's still the hope that mediocrity can be overcome
i've been hanging on to this band through thuck and thin
first encountered them way back in 1982 - ancient history
loved them from the first note of the first tune of their second album
an affinity to their sound, attitude, originality and consistency
that being an inate ability to connect to another dimension
they standing between us and a realm we can only dream of
a connection to another place beyond our mundane lives
music being that which provides the means to escape
the church holding that door open and waving us through
constant in opal - typical kilbey-esque word-playing
this tune from an ep released way back in 1984
did they know back then it would take 25 years
doubt it - but shrug - it not matter at all
for me they have provided inspiration
what is that popular expression again?
integrity, integrity, integrity
thanks chasps - love your work

live in london

the title of a new leonard cohen dvd
recorded mid 2008 before his recent tour
but presumably the same band and material
this live concert at the humongous o2 arena
most famously used last year by zed leppelin
now i must confess i am not a hard core fan
only lately getting into him with dear heather
a very good album released a few years back
his recent concerts receiving universal praise
tonight it was decided to watch a music dvd
current hosts well set up home theatrically
so an easy decision to indulge in this concert
the action opening with the man coming on stage
a huge ovation from a huge crowd at this huge venue
leading to some concern about how this is going to work
his material as far away from stadium rock as you can get
but cleverly the director has a means to nullify that
keep it close - very close - the close-ups reign
so we get to see every line on his craggy face
which also means we can monitor the sincerity
and there's plenty of that coming from him
every note of every tune sung emotionally
and clearly too - the lyrics easy to decipher
the sheer poetry of his songs there for the taking
so for me as a late convert this is working very well
and then there is the band - perfect for the material
the hammond organ the standout instrument aurally
the chap on guitars and laud also of the highest quality
but the master-stroke is cohen's choice of backing singers
sharon robinson particularly held in high esteem by the man
similarly the gorgeous webb sisters just right on the night
lots of eye contact from the man as he looks on lovingly
graciously acknowledging all of those on stage with him
and in turn giving thanks to the large and excited crowd
the tunes - 25 of them in all including all the big ones
so long marianne, suzanne, hallelujah, tower of song
the banter between songs both humorous and telling
it’s been a long time since i’ve stood on a stage in london
it was about 14 or 15 years ago - i was 60 years old
....just a kid with a crazy dream
even at 2 hours the dvd is shorter than the show itself
but it is entirely captivating - total class throughout
and well suited to a large screen and speakers
a very pleasant saturday night in the country

chase the sun

literally actually - heading west as the sun sinks
an invitation to see this band playing way out west
the offer including ticket, food and accommodation
too good to pass up really so the journey is made
they're performing in a large community hall
a masonic lodge converted for live performance
the promoter and friend has done a good job
the locals out and in force and a near full house
first on the bill a singer-songwriter named cass eager
she in possession of a fine and strong blues voice
stunning guitar skills particularly on lap-slide
a very natural attitude and sassiness to match
next up is a chap in the new one man band mode
live looping - play a riff, tap a beat, record it
play it back repeatedly and repeat the process
so that a band sound can be created by one person
last seen at womad with maori lady mihirangi
tonight claude hay mixes in an electric sitar
an impressive blues-world-rock performance
chase the sun have a big reputation to live up to
they are billed as australia's best blues band
their opening tune a stunning acoustic guitar solo
a seated jan rynsaardt referencing some obvious heroes
robert johnson and eric clapton quickly coming to mind
with bassist and drummer then on stage it's no holds barred
this 3 piece producing a big, loud, clean blues-rock sound
various guitars swapped in and out to provide the variety
jan rynsaardt as lead vocalist meaning he's the man
solidly supported by ryan van gennip on bass
jon 'howler' howell tub-thumping with style
it's an impressive sound they crank out
70's rock blues guitar fresh energetic stuff
in a way nothing too original but still compelling
the mosh pit and the seated audience all enthusiastic
me - thinking i like it but once is probably enough
but then they play their trump card superbly
cass eager back on stage as lead vocalist
a female robert plant as they play rock 'n' roll
she looking the part with this tune in all its glory
lifting the band to a total new dimension
it's a cliche but born to be on stage she is
voice, looks, attitude, and now an amazing band
i don't recall ever seeing such a transformation
with her up front chase the sun can go anywhere
record company exec's will be tripping over tongues
stand aside wolfmother - here's the real deal
it shall be interesting to see how far they go
after gig discussions confirming my thinking
nice bunch of people too - very gracious
they deserve whatever success they enjoy
chase the sun - great name, great band

samson and delilah

the 5 star reviews are rolling in for this film
some saying every australian should go and see it
which was never said of the other australia film
it reached for epic-ness but was saved by simplicity
from what i read the aboriginal boy was the real star
in this film it's another aboriginal boy at the centre
the film opens with him rousing from his sleep
and oddly some american country music is playing
he struggles with his clothing and then takes his fix
his nose buried in a plastic container of petrol
stumbles outside picks up a guitar and thrashes away
jamming away with the drummer and bass-player
significantly he's wearing a birthday party t-shirt
so already we know music is a big part of his life
but this is big brothers guitar and mates in the band
so samson's turn on the guitar is aggressively cut short
over on the other side of town delilah is with her nana
she elderly, sickly and an accomplished indigenous artist
they sit quietly doing their dot-paintings together
delilah cooking, administering drugs and walking her nana
it's a very simple and quiet life everyone is leading
it's like groundhog day as the film goes through a few days
leading eventually to samson and delilah meeting up
some genuinely funny scenes featuring nana's comments
also some genuinely sad scenes as they are run out of town
alice springs is where they end up living under a bridge
he is still petrol-sniffing, she is still providing
so far there's not been a word spoken between them
which i put down to the atmospherics of the film
an intention to let their environment tell the story
the harshness of which is also shown with no punches pulled
delilah falls victim to some brutal and then accidental assault
sadly samson is so out of it he is oblivious to her plight
the weight of their situation fully on her young shoulders
apart from her own assault she witnesses a major scam
sees her nana's artwork being sold for astronomical prices
stirring an anger in her that transforms her personality
and a clear change in her attitude towards the townies
it's a sad and desperate situation the 2 friends are in
eventually however the authorities step in and assist
seeing the 2 relocate to delilah's isolated family shack
it smacks of happily-ever-after but it's not going to be
though there's a temporary reprieve in their hard lives
at which point we the audience can also take a breath
this film is so genuinely touching and presumably realistic
i know very little about the indigenous way of modern life
but everything seen in this film seems quite representative
showing the basic conditions in which aborigines are living
the effect of alcohol and petrol-sniffing on old and young
the entrenched violence within and visiting their communities
and yet the film is not preaching, begging or accusing
it simply shows it as it really is from the inside
which of course is why everyone should see it
apparently it's gathering momentum overseas
australia's answer to slumdog millionaire?
though this one stays very close to it's core
more like australia's answer to hollywood's australia
and yes - definitely worth the 5 star treatment

gerard masters trio

tonight was meant to be a trip on ze train
into the night to the current place of domicile
but oops connecting services letting me down
and so a 45 minute wait at central station - pass
wander up the road to the surry hills best indian
but oops an ammonia soaked floor too much to bear
a desperate owner literally chasing me for my business
the familiar next door foyer some respite from him
so music beats food - press the buzzer for admittance
into the graffitti infested foyer - into the lift and up we go
pay the $10 down and wander in as carl dewhurst winds up
but the place is packed - this place is definitely tres fashionable
it's dark, dank, and tippy-toey through the floor-dwelling throngs
but wait - spot the gap - a space on one of the few lounges here
'scuse me - do you mind if i sit down here - sure mate - go for it
at times like this i do appreciate the concept of twist-tops
scrounge a plastic cup and pour forth el cheapo red wine
survey the scene and plan an escape real soon now
between me and the band is a solid concrete column
totally blocking out one third of the trio now performing
but there's a direct view of main man gerard masters on piano
over on the right is evan mannell in charge of drums and percussion
behind the column is our host and bass-player cameron undy
me - convinced myself i have that gerard masters can't cut it
this based on one experience of a less than convincing show
an outfit at the time to me over-confident and under-rehearsed
so - sniff - i'm only here through a combination of circumstances
and sure enough the opening tunes not compelling in any way
the crowd showing indifference with many conversations also under way
try as i might i just can't invoke the required evil stares to shut 'em up
so yep i'm thinking the rarely used eject button may be required
after all - it's monday night - a train is waiting - should move on
but - but - but - gerard masters it seems has an intent to inform
and a mutual disdain for those that insist in blah, blah, blah
his barbed comments appropriate but most likely lost on 'em
so ok - i'm now with him and willing him on despite the crowd
the opening few tunes not doing much to win me over
no doubt about his keyboard skills and confidence
gentle is not his style - bang out those tunes
the rhythm department trying to keep up
yes - i'm certain it's good but it lacks something
soul i think - they are reaching but not grasping
i'm checking the time as gerard masters talks again
this time informing us of his admiration of swedish outfit est
the esbjorn svensson trio - the main man drowning 12 months ago
gerard masters has written a piece dedicated to them titled est
now we're talking - and what a musical transformation
this trio nails the sound of est respectfully and precisely
the fan in me very happy to hear that sound live
the band themselves now in a comfortable groove
and playing a few more tunes in a similar style
me - content - crowd - hushed - band - happy
the end of the set coming 15 minutes before train time
a dash for the door with a thanks to the man on the way out
onto the train into the night and well satisfied
funny how that invisible force works sometimes
nudging you in the right direction to the right place
me - totally enjoying that ride at the moment

simpatico

now it's getting serious - 2 of the stars of the local scene
paul cutlan on bass clarinet and andrew robson on tenor sax
this combo plays infrequently - both busy with other projects
my feeling is that the preference is to keep it short and sharp
one set only - played hard and fast and see you again sometime
a concise and precise introduction from andrew and into it
a promise of total improvisation throughout their performance
a sincere wish that we enjoy it as much as they are going to
these 2 have obviously found something sitting above skills
brilliant exponents of the combination of talent and freedom
in the opening tune they are both hard at it and letting rip
each musician well synced with the other without eye contact
rapid-fire playing with complementing sounds from both players
this is not gentle, smooth or nice - it's aggressive and demanding
requiring serious energy and commitment to sustain the sound
and it works - the bass clarinet perfectly suited to the alto sax
lower and upper register notes harmonising for a full sound
the pace of the tune changing in an instant and in unison
for me it's another riveting improvisation experience
that's me with my jaw dropped and eyes fixed
pinned to my comfy seat only a few metres away
the first tune winds up accurately with no obvious sign
2 musicians well happy with that effort and loud applause
a change of instrument for paul cutlan onto a standard clarinet
and with that a slower number but no less engaging
andrew using his alto to provide a looped bass effect
allowing paul to wander all over the place on the clarinet
and speaking of which - pet hate time once again
we had been warned that the performance would be filmed
fair enough - a great opportunity to record a moment in time
but grrrrr - these 2 cameramen went over the top
cameras up close, from below, from behind
and worst of all - standing right in front of me
total disregard for the audience and all about them
incensed i was - thankfully it was an exceptional performance
tempted to have a go at them but presumably they had permission
and a realisation that this set would find it's way to a video
shall be looking out for that - and all will be forgiven
live at the grove - has a nice ring to it actually
another satisfying sunday night of music

roman pulati band

back to the bohemian grove to lend support to this venue
a sunday-night-only operation trying to help musicians
run by a musician wanting to provide space for his peers
the word is not out yet so there's never a problem with seating
pick a lounge, a futon, a mik crate and cushion - or stand
then take in some fine music over a couple of sets
tonight 2 different acts are playing one set each
first up - the newly formed roman pulati band
he's the fellow in the centre on electric guitar
apparently he has played extensively overseas
including serious guitar schooling in the u s of a
this 5 piece band a nice balance of guitar/brass/drums
so the credentials are impressive enough - should be good
nope - not really - all kind of dull actually - too nice
maybe west coast jazz is all floaty, cruisey and safe
but down here it's not going to be taken seriously
there's way too much gutsy original stuff happening
mein host for example - he from wunderband trio apoplectic
an unbelievable performance from them 2 nights ago
tonight he's sitting next to me willing on his guests
he and i also wanting this to be a great performance
but it just doesn't get there - though they do try
some interesting brass arrangements in the mix
electric bass player and drummer both efficient
roman pulati himself obviously a talented guitarist
but this venue still has fresh memories of local heroes
carl dewhurst and james muller both having visited recently
tonight's performance not in the same league to these ears
and please mr pulati - talk to us - tell us something
a bit of history - a new beginning maybe - some inspirations
eventually the pregnant pauses between tunes got to him also
and a half-hearted attempt was made to provide some banter
but for me the damage had been done - boredom was in the house
a bit harsh probably but nice jazz does not cut it for me
they're not written off yet - just need to get more edge
or maybe find an audience that enjoys this style
one of those jazz cruise things back over in amerika
or accompanying an accomplished jazz style singer
that would work - shift the focus - play the music
nice try - now - moving on - next set please

let the right one in

something called twilight is getting all the attention
a book/film about teenage vampires - or something
this film bearing no relation except in subject matter
sweden - snow - cold - bleak - eerie - subdued - weird
the opening titles setting the scene quite convincingly
no music, no sounds, small lettering on a dark background
a very scandinavian looking boy out of focus against a window
armed with a serious looking knife with clear intentions to use it
me - feeling challenged and comfortably not numb about this
oskar is the subject of the school bullies and decidedly alone
until eli mysteriously appears after moving in next door
she is in the company of an older man who has a role
he is her provider - sustenance - in the form of blood
an early murder scene which has me squirming
nothing too gratuitous seen but all clearly implied
there's something literally chilling about blood and snow
though he botches it and has to incur the wrath of eli
a physically 12-year old girl who has it all over him
but she identifies directly with oskar and his aloneness
similarly he sees in her the companion he craves for
the empathy between them becomes the core of the film
the failure of her provider means she has to strike out
leading to deaths and disappearances in the neighbourhood
eli's pale skin, dark hair, black eyes and bloody lips striking
her actions leading to despair and fear in the community
and an awakening in oskar about his friend's special skills
there are some amazing scenes showing eli the vampire
the bleakness of the snow-covered city a perfect setting
we see her scurrying up the sides of buildings and trees
launching herself onto victims and disappearing quickly
classic vampire stuff but cleverly we don't see her as evil
as the bodies become discovered things get more complicated
threatening to expose oskar and eli's secret relationship
one thing she has taught oskar is to stand up for himself
and so he takes matters into his own hands with the bullies
which in turn leads to a confrontation at the indoor pool
and then for me some scenes that are almost farcical
i'm sure it wasn't intentional but it was laugh-out-loud
eli comes to oskar's rescue with over-the-top results
and in the final scene it is clear oskar is now the provider
i walked out of the theatre a little bit disappointed
for nearly 2 hours i had been totally held by the film
only to be released in what seemed an odd way
though - coming out into the now cold and dark night
warily pounding the back streets of darlinghurst
and alarmed as a young lady ran past and close by
had me jumping out my skin - relax - it was just a film
but like any good film it stays with you for a while
you the living and now let the right one in
2 swedish films of very similar themes
isolation, loneliness, empathy - love actually
though not your average love story - thankfully

trio apoplectic

it's favourite band time at the sound lounge tonight
well there's a few of them but this one certainly counts
saw them do a set at the same venue about a year ago
sharing the bill with another trio of young local jazz upstarts
and making an impression on me that has had me on the lookout
i attended the wangaratta jazz festival last year to see them again
their attendance there convincing me of their unique sound
tonight it's the official launch of their second album titled sofia
a decent crowd in attendance and me in the best seat in the house
looking forward this time to a couple of sets of fine music
sure enough they start up and are immediately engaging
in a way it's a fairly conventional lineup - sax, bass, drums
but then they have other things to add - youth, talent, enthusiasm
dave jackson on alto can't help attracting the most attention
for it's his sweet, singing, melodic style that makes their sound
able cross on standup bass his musical brother and master player
he similarly as fluid and melodic as can be on his instrument
alex masso on drums and percussion sitting tight and close
no need for flashiness here - precision playing filling it out
his other duty to provide the banter between blocks of tunes
which to me is quite an essential yet underrated component
done with grace, humour and brevity adding to a performance
certainly the case tonight as alex informs us of the music
they now have 2 albums to draw on and a few standards
one of them being the gorgeous what reason could i give
an ornette coleman tune last heard covered by another outfit
then led by a trumpet but tonight it's at home with an alto
dave jackson appropriately providing the emotion in spades
working with his bandmates to provide a unified sound
the silence factor confirming that this show is special
at times in gentle pieces like this the room was hushed
to me indicating every person tuned into the performance
with loud and generous applause as each tune concludes
the new tunes sounding original and played confidently
sofia - back-announced - me thinking it was a standard
holly and bobby - horses - sax playing of the highest order
details of how to get APOPLECTIC on your licence plate
a tune from the first album that allows lots of space
an up-tempo all-in anything-goes free-form number
dave jackson pulling all manner of sounds from his sax
able cross using a bow to great effect on his bass
alex masso bashing, crashing, tapping, flourishing
a move away from melody but still playing as one
every single tune different from every other
no mean feat in 2 hours of music from a trio
it's always good to see a unit having fun
even more so to recognise mutual respect
and the ultimate to sense something special
heart palpitations in one moving tune for me
a totally impressive and engaging performance
music as fresh and pure as you could hope for
their musical journey only just beginning....

the baader-meinhof complex

i'd seen the trailer for this one and was curious
then david and margaret both gave it high praise
tonight is opening night - about 10 of us there
so maybe terrorism has been done to death (ahem)
the film opens with some historical footage
showing a visit by the shah of iran to germany
journalist ulrike meinhof writes a scathing article
denouncing the shah's failure as a leader in iran
citing poverty, ill-health and the treatment of women
his visit leads to protests in the streets of berlin
which is met with a brutal putdown of the protesters
the violent thuggery of the attackers quite jarring
and a wake-up call - the alarm bells start ringing
for me personally that this film is going to be full-on
and historically for many that a fascist state may re-emerge
so this sparks more protests and the birth of the red army faction
under the leadership of the charismatic andreas baader
there is a very strong anti-american sentiment in the film
the vietnam war and american imperialism often mentioned
and again some very disturbing historical footage
carpet-bombing, napalm, executions all shown
and thus setting us up to accept the raf's ideals
that violence can only be confronted with more violence
and so the raf under the leadership of baader and meinhof go for it
a string of bombings and executions over a number of years
the film depicting these events with chilling realism
it's quite a rough ride during this extended part of the film
accuracy retained as victims and buildings are clearly identified
with a fine line between re-enactment and archive footage
a lot of time in the film is spent with the perpetrators
but without denouncing them it is suggested they over-react
at the same time the police are seen showing restraint
the chief of police depicted as a man of intelligence
wanting to understand the terrorists motives throughout
so this film is not taking sides - it is telling a story
as more students become radicalised the violence also extends
particularly when the leaders of the raf are arrested
and in turn more violence is used to coerce their release
the raf now seen to be linked to middle eastern terrorists
resulting in the hi-jacking of the lufthansa flight
and the murder of israeli athletes at the munich olympics
the film spends time showing the raf leaders in prison
a realisation that their cause has gotten out of hand
but still a stubborn determination to defy authority
resulting in appearances in court turning farcical
as large numbers of supporters also interrupt the process
phew - there's a lot going on in this epic film
2 and a half hours of violence, arguments and action
though at no point did i lose the plot (so to speak)
the relentless depiction of violence is exhausting
but i did feel like i had been delivered a lesson
not only in historical facts of major events
but also on what drives people to terrorism
and in turn how authority can react to that
so it's also a very contemporary film
and one that could be seen again...gulp

the boy in striped pyjamas

the title sounding like an adaptation of a children's story
far from it of course in this film of a book of the same name
the central character is a boy dressed in striped prison garb
the prison being an unnamed concentration camp in germany
some time is spent at the beginning of the film setting it up
with a senior nazi officer packing his family off to his new job
they unaware of his new role as commandant of the camp
there's some long and wide shots of life in wartime berlin
children playing, soldiers marching, jews being herded
the family seen to be from the top end of germany society
with a lavish party being thrown prior to their departure
the commandant's parents are seen at the party
he the proud militaristic father, she challenging the war
this the first sign of cracks in their authoritarian lives
it takes a few minutes to get used to the very english accents
as there is no attempt to authenticate the language
which means this is another in a series of similar films
valkyrie and the reader particularly also english based
but again no point being picky - so best go with it
a change of focus as the family moves to the country
their sterile home close to the camp he commands
some chilling shots of smoke from the chimney stacks
and a gradual but discernible effect on the family
as the father takes on the role of the tough and loyal leader
initially mother supports her husband until the truth comes out
she is horrified by their situation and is deeply affected
their daughter at 12 embraces the ideals of hitler youth
while the son - bruno - an explorer - befriends a jew
it's a secret friendship with schmuel who is in the camp
they sit, talk and play with the camp fence between them
their innocent 8 year old conversations are very moving
as they both try and figure out the world they are in
the action moves between here and life in the house
as bruno watches his family change before his very eyes
for it is through those eyes that this world is seen
very clever directing means we are totally empathetic
and the pacing of the film is also superb - just right
as it builds to a quite an emotional and stunning climax
which sees the 2 boys fall victim to the fathers crimes
and some quite unforgettable scenes inside the camp
assisted by some very sombre yet appropriate music
me - i was pinned to my seat as the credits rolled
a day later and it's still stuck in my head
this one is a war film with a difference
and given the state of our world today
also very contemporary - a must-see

laughing clowns

you could say ed kuepper is currently on a musical roll
the saints and the clowns both playing to large crowds
particularly at the all-tomorrows-parties festival in january
since then ed has been drafted by nick cave as a bad seed
which can only add an exciting dimension to a well loved band
on friday night the clowns played as part of the melbourne jazz festival
tonight is the second night of 2 sell-out shows at the basement
no promise of any further shows so the fans are out in force
a pleasant if not dated sound as warm-up by the lighthouse keepers
another independent band from the 1980's recently reformed
but there's a real charge in the air as the clowns come on stage
there's also some large cameras in place to record the show
the fan next to me in the know saying it's for live at the basement
it's an unrecognisable noisefest in the first tune - improvisation?
leading into their signature tune of laughing clowns
it's loud, it's clear, it's solid and they are superbly tight
which is almost a contradiction given that they are pseudo-jazz
but the rock component of form, chorus, beat and rhythm locks it in
after a couple of tunes there's a discerning feeling of unity
each member clearly giving their all and into the sound
alister spence on keyboards looking like an original now
a lot of time spent syncing his sounds with louise elliot
she on her large tenor saxophone playing faultlessly
convincing this novice that a player can have their own sound
leslie (biff) millar on the best looking stand-up bass around
whacking strings, all over the place, volume just right and solid
jeffery wegener again displaying his exquisite timing and restraint
capable at any point of launching into drum solo-ish histronics
but always instead choosing a single tap, crash or not to add the edge
as for edmund kuepper - he's the human lightning rod at the centre
is surrounded by a band of musical equals and an adoring crowd
but nothing is taken for granted - he is a committed performer
looking and sounding as one totally connected to his craft
clearly enjoying his time at the centre of his invention
each unique and classic tune played with total conviction
every one of them sounding utterly and totally contemporary
collapse board again the tune of the night for this big sop
again dedicated in my head to a departed friend and song-fan
a tune that i suspect that could not be played by anyone else
which in hindsight is probably true of most of their material
including the classic eternally yours which lives up to its reputation
every time i hear this one ed has worked out a new arrangement
tonight it's a quite loose, noisy, all-in introduction hinting at what is coming
and then when louise plays that riff it just about brings the house down
being at the end of the set means the calls for encores are loud
and the band duly obliges with another 3 fine tunes
wrapping up with bully in the town
just totally freakin' unbelievable
here's hoping there's more
nick cave - lucky man

new gold dream

this youtube thing continues to amaze and delight
you name it - there seems to be something for everything
not to mention a very clever tool that knows what you like
comes up with recommended viewings based on those watched previously
so now i get a choice of music based clips closely aligned to my tastes
though you do get punished for goofing off on some nostalgia trip
a few weeks back i locked in a simple minds track from the 80's
so now - there's an abundance of them awaiting consumption
this one just too good sonically to be ignored
visually it's a dud - a single image of cover artwork
but apparantly it features stereolink - not sure what that is
it reminds me of the good old days when vinyl came out in stereo
i don't actually remember that much but it was well embraced
it was a quantum leap in the reproduction quality of music
which certainly is now needed for internet downloads
mp3 compression, etc compromising music quality
but whatever has been done here is totally noticeable
i love this tune anyway but here it sounds quite superb
my preference - stick on the headphones and crank up the volume
simple minds were are at a creative peak when they put this out
a full 28 years ago - unbelievable - and now back into stadiums
new gold dream 81-82-83-84 - seemed so forward thinking back then
bet they had no idea they would be playing it 30 years later
it just doesn't sound like something of that era
but that's probably true of the best of music
timelessness - is good - as is this tune

may day

had a real blast of a travelling day today in nz's south island
left christchurch yesterday in a pocket-rocket rental car
at nightfall cruised into a much rejuvenated kaikoura
last visit to this town probably 30 years ago
since then the whales have visited frequently
meaning this town is now a tourism mecca
backpackers, cafes, motels, bars are plentiful
but all done quite tastefully and in true nz style
this morning i drove out with snow on the hills
swirling clouds, chilly air and a crashing sea
bought ye olde style toasted sandwich and cup-a-coffee
hit the road north fired up the cd player and settled in
today's first discovery - fleet foxes cd is fine driving music
all tracks on the album so reminiscent of 70's something
hollies - csny - buffalo springfield - simon & garfunkel
but with an edge and production that sets it apart
but whatever - perfectly suited to today's trip
quiet roads, rolling hills, clear rivers, wild seas
a pervasive sense that here and now all is ok
hoping that the destination doesn't come too quickly
the digital camera my companion on this trip and needing air
so frequent stops to push buttons to try and capture atmosphere
thus turning a 90 minute trip into much more than that
which also allows time for a run through of another cd
animal collective today's second musical discovery
an unbelievable collection of noise-infested tunes
radiohead - beach boys - pink floyd - stone roses
topped off with great vocals, harmonies and production
both new albums soaked up before cruising into blenheim
business successfully done and dusted at the local cd store
being on a musical roll means another new cd is bought
(a p r exercise for what hopes will be a new client)
the superb drive through to nelson has a soundtrack
more hills, more vacant roads, more stunning scenery
with the cafe-del-mar-ish music of boozoo bajou
musical discovery number 3 initially underwhelming
but won over as the pocket-rocket cruises into nelson
the album itself morphing from m-o-r to left-of-centre
oh what a perfect day - topped off with a meal with friends
and then some fine red and amy winehouse in concert (dvd)
that would be musical discovery number 4 - she has soul
so rolling into bed tonight feeling happy and well
all is good in (this part of) the world...zzz

song in space

and continuing on the journey of unearthing church-ly delights
another example of this bands ability to boldly go where no others dare
space-rock - a bit of a self-imposed definition of some of their music
my interpretation of that is simply psychedelia meets guitar-rock
i gather groups such as hawkwind are the pioneers of the sound
but the church in their usual style do it their own unique way
this clip fresh to these eyes - never seen on any tv show
probably played once on rage at 4:00am one sunday morning
but youtube to the rescue again and seen 13,000 times plus
it's a few years old now but that is totally irrelevant
putting aside a few tunes (mostly off their first album)
every tune they have recorded as timeless as is possible
a big call i know but please - think the beatles
they got lucky - they turned twee into pop
took the crowd with them and kept experimenting
helped not insignificantly by the man and his machine
imploded after a few great albums and seemingly now untouchable
but for me - thanks but nearly 40 years of recycling is way too much
there's this other band that has churned out far more material
and most importantly - they still do - and still sound fresh
imagine there's no beatles - it's easy if you try
no hell below us - above us only - space -
- rock - the church - song in space
another timeless classic

rokia traore youtube

some time tonight spent reviewing the photo archives
including hundreds of them taken at womadelaide this year
a bit of an interest in preserving and documenting memories
so usually at a show a couple of minutes of rapid-fire shooting
in the hope that there is one photo at least worth preserving
not guaranteed given the amateur photographer and equipment
on a beautiful sunday night rokia traore wowed the crowd
i got a few good shots in then flicked the camera to movie mode
the result being a low quality film of a high quality show
i'd actually forgotten about this until it popped up tonight
watched it a couple of times and decided it's not too bad
certainly in comparison to many other youtube posted videos
what my little effort does is show why she is so special
the voice, the music, the dancing, the beauty all on display
the crowd totally in to the show and grooving away in front
not sure how this will look and sound to anyone else
but i reckon i'll re-visit it on the odd occasion
probably when needing a rokia or womadelaide fix
or most likely some ego-tripping on youtube
a nice feature there containing uploads
what fun - goofing off on the internet
though nowhere as good as live music
long may it last - go rokia - she great

the international

sometimes a bit of compromise is required
a decision made tonight to go and see a film
my teenage companion pushing for something fast and furious
my preference for something the polar opposite of that one
so an agreement to meet in the middle with the international
memories of clive owen in children of god still resonating
naomi watts last seen in the rather thinly painted veil
reviews, trailers, etc meaning not too much is expected
though mention of plot complexities in several reviews
means i am concentrating on the dialogue in the opening scenes
a want to stay with or understand the plot as best i can
clive owen and naomi watts play new-york based interpol agents
he is officer louis salinger - she his boss eleanor whitman
good-looking, moralistic, squeaky clean - the goodies
he is in berlin with a companion liasing with a snitch
part of a large european bank with ties to the underworld
corrupt governments, arms dealers, etc also major clients
so the heads of this bank are clearly defined as the baddies
and quite easy to accept given the state of our real world
suspiciously salingers companion has a fatal heart attack
shortly after the snitch dies in a mysterious car accident
and so salinger moves into high gear to get to the truth
bolding striding into enemy territory within impressive buildings
the action leaping all over europe as he goes about his work
with the architecture of berlin, luxembourg, milan, lyon on display
it's a fairly rapid ride as the banks dealings are revealed
leading to the assassination of a future prime minister in milan
this giving more opportunity for salinger to go harder and deeper
this man is on a mission and nothing is going to get in his way
yep - he has morphed into a james bond / jason bourne character
sidelining all other characters as his impossible mission unfolds
not only that but he is a man of steel dodging bullets with ease
emerging unscathed from a long shoot-out in the guggenheim
there's no damsals in distress but there's a hint of romance
our 2 stars being professional yet setting it up for something
the long tear-filled gazes, the gentle touching, the lonely lives
the climax of this film however is some action in istanbul
another city introduced with some impressive aerial shots
the action within the walls of the sultan ahmed (blue) mosque
some shady dealing, eavesdropping, a murder and then a chase
this one taking place across the rooftops around the mosque
so again and consistently some stunning architecture on display
in the end of course salinger gets his man - the head of the bank
cut - that's a wrap - now close it out with a set-up for part 2
multiple online news articles displayed regarding the (bad) bank
showing they continue on their devious ways all over the world
blatantly setting it up for salinger to continue his crusade
besides - the girl - we're all hanging out for that conquest
there's only 1 thing getting in his way i would suggest
bums on seats - if not enough that's it for salinger
but given the success of other films of this genre
i'd say that's not the last we see of this pairing
but for me - that would be enough i think
still - a good compromised viewing

the wrestler

too many good reviews can sometimes be a good thing
here making an unappealing subject an appealing film
american pro-wrestling not at all anything i give time to
just too contrived, primal, manipulated, senseless for my liking
when i heard about this film the first reaction was to steer clear
but there's been unanimous positive reviews and academy awards
on this night in this town there's a limited choice of films
so the prejudices are sidelined and the mind is opened
the film itself opens with an overview of the main man
randy 'the ram' robinson at the top of his game 20 years earlier
a long scan of newspaper clippings revealing his past glories
so cleverly no need to waste time and effort portraying early days
for it's the here and now that this film is concerned with
he's still trying to eek out a living as a professional
mickey rourke well beefed up and very muscular
looking very much the part of a wrestler past his prime
giving out advice and receiving respect from his companions
also some scenes of the wrestlers planning matches
then pushing things to the physical edge in the bouts
giving the small crowds value for money for their entertainment $
he's quite sweet on a stripper in a local club played by marisa tomei
there are some parallels here too - she also at the end of her career
and a clear reminder that especially in america work is mandatory
in this case both using and punishing their bodies for the crowds
the ram pushes it too far and ends up in hospital after a heart attack
is advised to give it all away and he wisely takes this advice
but he finds it difficult to operate in the real world
he is forced to take whatever part time work is available
with some quite funny scenes in a supermarket deli
he decides to make contact with the daughter he abandoned
her initial and sad reaction is in turn to reject his overtures
then in some touching scenes they are drawn close and all seems good
but then rejection by cassidy the stripper affects him profoundly
leading to him again messing up the relationship with his daughter
and a decision to once again return to his comfort zone in the ring
so it's a very simple storyline at work in this film
this is a good thing in this no-nonsense story
everything that happens is quite believable
my thinking this could be an american foreign film
slice of life stuff without the gloss or glamour
though the climax had me squirming a bit in my seat
there's just a couple of naff lines that spoil it
him - i don't want to be out there alone in the real world
her - but i'm here now - i mean - i'm really here now
not so much the lines but the delivery falling a bit flat
and then the film wraps quite unexpectedly and without resolution
ah - but - intentionally or not (doubt it) setting up for the wrestler 2
the cynic in me seeing strong parallels with the rocky series
from memory the first in that series was a good film too

aura

and presenting the second part in the series of classic church tunes
the church - them being the best band in the world by a few light years
this clip not an official church endorsed music vid but a youtube discovery
some seriously creative fan has put together and posted this video
being a bunch of literally fantastic images suited to the music
i watched it through once and thought it was quite interesting
then as usual once is not enough with this exceptional tune
so an immediate second viewing drew me in further and deeper
now it's on repeat play and forever linked to this tune
it may not be official but i'd say it would be approved
aura is the opening track off the album priest = aura
released in 1992 and still sounding as fresh as...
the tune itself being 7 minutes of genre-defining glory
a lovely orchestral introduction and an ear-piercing outro
in-between a melodic bassline, singing guitars, cracking drums
stunning production from scottish wunderkid-at-the-time gavin mackillop
mr kilbey delivering up his sublime poetry-lyrics as uniquely as ever
such lyrics seemingly having an influence on the video producer
the imagery of the words strongly linked to the clip visuals
this one is travelling with me to the desert island
another in a long list of church ageless classics
and now with a clip allowing similar repeat play
happy birthday to me - thank-you sunshine and spirit

two places at once

gems from the best band in the world part 1
the church - been cranking out fine music for 28 years now
have out-lasted, out-delivered, out-played, out-everything all others
in 1993 they called it a day - not sure why but it's not 'musical differences'
i'd be willing to suggest that the man over-promised and totally under-delivered
thankfully 2 of the core members kept the name alive and delivered sometime anywhere
an album of stunning music free of the shackles of contracts, expectation and familiarity
leading to an eventual reform of the band with a freedom still permeating today
an album released in 2009 with the joyous sound of independence dominant
but - rewind to 1994 - this track the sound of a new future possibility
this clip is quite sublime - the images and lyrics perfectly matched
recorded in mexico cutting between band-of-2 performances and storyline
the suggestion of ghosts in the tune conveyed brilliantly in the video
but the music - strings, guitars, choruses, gentle, rock-out, etc, etc
a staggering reminder of all that is possible in contemporary music
15 years later and they're still trailing a blaze musically
long live the church says this long-time hard-core fan
but for now - two places at once - is beautiful

carl dewhurst trio

sunday night now locked in as a visit to bohemian grove
a space 2 flights up in the industrial part of surry hills sydney
pay the dollars down pick a comfy seat and let go to what may follow
tonight's performance is a return visit by the carl dewhurst trio
the first act in the history of the venue to make such a return
indicating that variety has been a factor since the venue opened

still a bit of a struggle crowd-wise - tonight sees 15 or so punters
i've seen each of the musicians in this group in other outfits
the main man carl dewhurst one half of noise-makers showa 44
seen using his guitar to make noises a guitar should not make
so tonight i was thinking it could be more of the same with a trio
cameron undy on 5-string electric bass seen also recently

memories of a patchy gig with his 20th century dog combo
james hauptman on drums last seen with translators
he providing the necessaries to allow that band to shine
one good thing about the bohemian grove is lack of pretence
the musos show up, set up, plug in and away they go
no need for sound-check (no pa) or other malarkey
today it took about 15 minutes from whoa to go
3 musicians walk in, set up and then proceed to have fun
it just so happens there's an audience at this low-key gig
the opening tune as expected is the settling in period
though this band seems very familiar with it's material
ditto with each other as they quickly settle into a groove
carl dewhurst's guitar dominating as would be expected
it's not rock, it's not blues, it's not jazz, it's not funk
though the sound something like where they all converge
cameron undy's funk-bass and effects also very distinctive
to me it's a kind of 60's/70's american underground sound
very comparable to that heard recently on a compilation cd
so i'm very much enjoying being witness to their sound
a bunch of original tunes played very confidently yet loosely
almost a jam session feel but with it a known structure
the 3 musicians retaining constant eye contact to hold that
carl dewhurst has a unique and very solid guitar style
at one point an image of eric clapton popped into my head
which lead me to thinking i could be watching early cream
a great guitar-bass-drums instrument-only blues-rock sound
with an echoey sound in this room that could be of that era
and so from that i'm thinking what an aural treat this is
which of course then leads to why not more people?
this is not some obscure avant-garde improvised noise-fest
(not that there is anything wrong with that to these ears)
this band is fresh, talented, giving and very listenable
the small crowd very much into what they put out
they too seeming well satisfied with their night's work
looking forward to seeing them on a bigger stage soon

summer hours

confession - juliette binoche can do no wrong in these eyes
put her in a film - any film - and i'm there with rose-tinted glasses on
seems i'm not alone though - one david stratton for one at least also besotted
an interview by him of her on his tv show putting this film on the must-see list
in this film she plays adrienne, sister to 2 brothers frederic and jeremie
they and their families are visiting their mother on her 75th birthday
the film opening with children running through the country property
a joyous time for all spoilt by death-wish instructions from mother
she stating the family home will need to be sold when her time comes
valuable furniture and artwork is to be sent to the musee d'orsay
mother's uncle was a famous artist previously sharing the house
so there is national cultural interest in the pieces in the house
soon after mother does in fact pass away so it's decision time
oldest brother frederic the only one not wanting to sell
there's impassioned arguments articulated from the 3 siblings
and for me the feeling that the family may be torn apart
this dispute then becoming the central theme of the film
used as a means to expose the personalities of the siblings
and at the same time demonstrating the fine art of problem resolution
impressively and believably done with no damage to relationships
leading me to think that it may well be a cultural thing
that family, respect, decency overrides all other matters
as this problem is being resolved we learn more of the mother
there is a secret involving her relationship with her famous uncle
her long-time housekeeper adds some gentle humour to the film
and back in new york a there's a brief cameo by kyle eastwood
playing the part of adriennes supportive boyfriend in her home city
i found i was completely absorbed with this quite gentle film
i kept bracing myself for some unexpected turn, shock or twist
but no such thing - it's another case of slice of (french) life stuff
though in this case it is enriched with some emphasis on art
a subtle education as paintings, vases, and furniture is discussed
particularly with several relevant scenes in the musee d'orsay
the film goes full circle with the climax back in the family home
(older) children again seen enjoying the freedom of the property
some long single-take scenes focussing on one grand-daughter
and a quiet revelation by her that could easily be missed
but cleverly demonstrating the connection of generations
in the end juliette binoche was not the major player
just another member of a typical extended family
dealing with typical family issues and problems
typical french-film making really - love it

sandy evans trio

part 2 of the trio of trios over the 3 days of this weekend
sandy evans is the shining star of the australian contemporary music scene
much is made of the fact that she is a woman working in a male dominated area
she overcame that decades ago and now is an extraordinary composer and musician
at least 2 of her other permanent groups are personal must-see favourites of mine
ten part invention and gest8 are both large groups that rely on her playing and composing
tonight is the first time i have seen her in a much smaller numbered lineup
a similarly slimmed-down brett hirst her choice of musician on standup bass
toby hall also looking trimmer than last seen appointed to take care of drums
i didn't know what to expect musically tonight apart from some quality playing
a chance for sandy to fly off freely in any direction she chose to go
this confirmed in the first part of the first tune titled 3 channels
the 3 of them immediately hard at work on their respective instruments
randomly and furiously played to somehow make a coherent absorbing sound
sandy then counting them in as the tune morphed into one with beat and noise
lucky me down the front feeling totally as one with their early connection
brett hirst looking in transcendence as his eyes locked on to something middle distance
toby hall playing as though possessed and delivering up a vast array of sounds
his ability to do this without over-powering the music a most impressive skill
it's a great start with sandy crediting the composer as sydney based eddie bronson
then a change in style as sandy talks briefly about her recent trip to india
flicks the switch on some electronic device and we're now in that part of the world
brett hirst then impressively playing solo bass with a matching eastern feel
sandy then picking up her soprano saxophone to work in a compatible sound
me thinking how lucky we all are to hear the results of her musical adventure
another case of world experiences infusing compositions and coming out in music
sandy always ready to push the musical envelope out of the comfort zone
and i suspect teaming up with musicians willing and able to do the same
after only 3 tunes i was completely mesmerised by this trio
all thoughts of a likely night of fine jazz standards now gone
this group prepared to take on all the risks of live performance
the challenge of playing relatively unfamiliar and complex music
but knowing that given the right circumstances it can be exhilarating
tonight it all came together - assisted in a small part by the audience i hope
it's not often at this venue that complete silence is given over
the sometimes annoying applause for solos dissipated
with some relief allowing the musicians to concentrate fully
some recent reading suggesting this is the preference of musicians
in the second set sandy continued to announce and talk about her music
2 tunes in particular again highlighting sandy's nature inspirations
the triumphant arch a new tune dedicated to the beauty of rainbows
followed by sunshine on tears also inspired by that natural occurrence
by now the band in full flight with each musician inspired by each other
the on-stage body language and chat confirming full contentment
the big one for me in the final set a tune back-announced as sa-ha
another indian-inspired piece of slow, superb, saxophone-playing
various movements giving each of the trio time to let loose
all contained within the beautiful feel of this quite dreamy piece
all too soon the night winding up with another local tune
sandy paying her respects to her peer mr bernie mcgann
his tune scatology a rousing ensemble piece ending the night
an audience laying on loud and long applause for this superb band
2 down 1 to go - gotta love the trio format - next.......

browne hannaford anning trio

complex, simple, aggressive, delicate, triumphal, dazzling, acerbic and engaging
so read the writeup from sima for this melbourne trio
on tonight at the sound lounge - part 1 of a 3 part series
a personal plan to get to see 3 trios over 3 nights this weekend
there is something quite engaging about a group of 3
jazz, rock, blues, alternative - whatever the genre
an equality and inter-dependence the factors at work
like a 3-legged stool - take one away and down it comes
well a simplistic theory and better analysed by those more qualified
i just know that musically when it works it works really well
so if this outfit can deliver on the promise it will be memorable
alan browne is a legendary figure in the australian jazz scene
has established labels, lectured, toured internationally, supported locally
mentors, teaches, records, writes poetry, books and music
has a permanent monday night residency at bennetts lane
i've never seen him in action so tonight i'm parked in front of his drumkit
both he and his band are given a reverential introduction by the m c
the word most memorably used to describe them is formidable
in the middle of the stage is award-winning bass player sam anning
over the left on the beautiful yamaha c7 piano is marc hannaford
as they work their way into the first tune the promise seems real
it strikes me they are playing structured music with confidence
this is not improvised or as often is the case based on skills and sheet music
each knows precisely what each other is doing and how it all locks together
the musical ball being tossed around a bit as each member is highlighted
alan browne himself with a kit that may well have been with him for 40 years
there's no doubt he loves playing and it seems also so with this outfit
they also seem in a bit in awe of his presence and visually deferring to him
he assumes role of spokesman and takes time between tunes to talk to us
graciously thanks his hosts, his band and his audience and moves on
this and his music means i find myself transported over the next few tunes
a feeling that i am witnessing a quite classic form of jazz music
confirmed by the back announcements of the composers they are referencing
thelonious monk, duke ellington, louis armstrong, bud powell amongst them
at times the music is gentle, melodic and with a beautiful piano sound
marc hannaford without fuss demonstrating classic (classical?) style
sam anning anchoring things precisely or using the bow to great effect
alan's browne quite loud drumming dominating when he fires up
his style and proximity almost drowning out the other music
but this is ok for someone like me who embraces volume and noise
the end of the first set confirming that the now full house is also happy
in the second set there are 2 tunes that stood out amongst the others
a quite moving, beautiful rendition of an ella fizgerald tune titled solitude
and another duke ellington piece entitled black and tan fantasy
allan browne happy to acknowledge his love of this one after 40 years
and for me equally happy to be given a lesson in classic jazz
it's a long, structured piece that heads off into a blues feel
at the conclusion there are 3 very happy musicians on stage
and an audience that has been witness to some superb music
the aforementioned program writeup pretty well spot-on
complex, simple, aggressive, delicate, triumphal, dazzling, acerbic and engaging

bottle shock

bottle shock affects some wines when transferred from cask to bottle
it is also the name of this film based in the napa valley in california
it had reasonable write-ups and seemed ideal for a casual film
especially as tonight the mood is for enjoyment not challenge
apart from a wine story the main appeal is based-on-fact
apparently in 1976 american wines cleaned up in a paris competition
opening the doors for a flood of american wines onto the world market
then in turn other wines from other parts of the world became exportable
the intention of this film is to explain how it all happened
the film opens in the napa valley - some great wide-screen shots
showing the vastness, openness and clean air of the vineyards there
some appropriate 70's music blasting to remind us of the times
the main characters are introduced - a struggling father and son
dad is the hard-worker, son is the lazy long-haired layabout
tension between the 2 resolved by slugging it out in the boxing ring
these are hardened blokes after all so it beats having a chat
bo (son) looking a lot like brad pitt in thelma and louise
then along comes sam - a cute blonde intern so we can see the future
we are then off to paris (supposedly) to meet the other star
he's an ex-pat brit living in paris named steven spurrier
he runs an unsuccessful wine shop and is struggling socially
not being taken too seriously as a british wine snob in paris
the actor is alan rickman who mostly i find a little creepy
nothing changes here as his trademark sneer works well in this role
a newspaper article sees him decide to make some changes
and it's off to california to gather some wines for local judging
a chance encounter then sees all the characters inter-t-wine-d
and away we go as we live amongst them for a while
various relationships are exposed and toyed with on screen
father-son, son-friend, son-girl, son-mother, father-mother, etc
but a combination of unconvincing acting and direction gets in the way
possibly because there's a deliberate intention to retain focus
the film after all is about wine and trouncing the french
which really became obvious when the action is back in france
the climax of the film is the wine-tasting - the 'judgement of paris'
where finally the wine from father-son wins the top prize
but these scenes outside paris are spoilt by a very lazy approach
they are clearly filmed in california - the scenery is the same
an attempt to convince us otherwise by dropping in a few french cars
but just too many citreon ds23 and 2cv's held in focus for too long
at which point i decided this film was too skewed for my liking
the french judges not overtly mocked but done so all the same
and a final sneer from alan rickman as the credits roll
this is in fact the most interesting part of the film
with text to explain more of the event and people
some after-film research on wiki quite interesting
with the real steve spurrier quite dismissive -
there is hardly a word that is true in the script
and many, many pure inventions as far as I am concerned
oh well - nice try - maybe it's for americans...

james sherlock trio

last night there were about 10 of us totally entranced by the music
my thoughts being why aren't there more in this city into this scene
world's best practice musically speaking and a de-void audience
tonight i follow some advice and get to another secret music club
a graffiti-rich entrance-way and a buzzer to seek admission
5 flights up in a dilapidated lift with no lights on
bringing to mind a scene from a twilight zone episode
there's already been a major power cut today so a tense ride
a relieved exit and a walk across a skyway to the entrance
pay the dollars down and in we go to the famed 505 club
there's something going on as there are a lot of people
in stark contrast to the previous nights (non) attendance
but a cautious (spelt c-y-n-i-c-a-l) feeling overrides excitement
a quick glance around confirms there's a lot of beautiful people
suggesting this may be more a fashion statement than a musical experience
but ok let's got with it - a crowd is needed and here they are
the music tonight is provided by the james sherlock trio
he himself on a beautiful white electric jazz guitar
the double bass played by the very busy brendan clarke
tim firth not seen for quite a while on drums and percussion
they start up with a quite gentle theloniuos monk tune
early confirmation given of another successful combination
james sherlock straight into all manner of chords, riffs, keys
tim firth demonstrating a light and fluid touch on his kit
brendan clarke glueing it together with mr-reliable bass-playing
the second tune is a jazz version of the stranglers golden brown
and very nice too - played with respect and sounding like a classic
i'm not sure many in this relatively young-ish crowd recognised it
then things go off musically speaking as the band settle in
some own compositions are played featuring the guitar
me thinking his playing not far removed from john scofield
maybe an unfair comparison style-wise but not skill-wise
a solo piece confirming this as mr sherlock quietens the crowd
so again the audience is witness to some world-class music
thankfully tonight there's a large number in attendance
about 80 people mostly sitting on the floor mostly listening
the annoying few thinking it ok to carry on conversations
and one chap thinking it ok to put himself and camera anywhere
effectively making the band a 4 piece with his annoying presence
to their credit the band ignored him and just kept playing
me - angry - i think he overstepped the intrusion line big time
showing complete indifference to the band and audience
in the second set we witness more fine ensemble playing
including a beautiful rendition of an antonio carlos jobim tune
a slow, melodic, lilting, melancholic tune played with style
and to me confirming that this 3 piece is in a fine place
their justified satisfaction celebrated in the final tune
announced as another jazz classic and given due treatment
each musician well relaxed and now playing very confidently
solos from each member leading to a lively and rousing ending
only spoilt by the amateur photographer again seeking attention
so absorbed by his instrument he had no regard for others
i did try to ignore him but he almost stole the show
thankfully the music tonight was too good for him
not that he would have noticed though
the james sherlock trio - nice work

the reaston kay effect

back to the bohemian grove for another sunday night of musical bliss
though unfortunately only another 7 people searching out musical manna
maybe there's something good on tv or something - or else i've been mislead
i'd read the mid-week email which in a twisted way promised something special
there's 550 of us on this email list so it's a bit odd that we only have 1.5% conversion
a pre-show chat with the host confirming his disappointment with the numbers
but then again not too surprised with the numbers at live music these days
this outfit is built around the 2 main composers and collaborators
david reaston on nylon-stringed semi-acoustic guitar
his foil martin kay on alto saxophone and m c duties
they have also 2 of the finest around to fill out the rhythm section
brendan clarke on bass - last seen with the latest international on these shores
dave goodman (professor) taking time out from lecturing to play drums
the first number confirming that this indeed will be a fine night of music
reason and kay immediately into some very precise sax/guitar harmonies
sheet music stands also indicating that their preference is structure
the rhythm section as solid as you could wish for filling out the sound
looking for points of difference as i usually do it's stage right the eyes go
over there david reaston is a bit drowned out but making some great music
there are some fine jazz guitarists around and he seems to be up there
nothing too flashy as he concentrates on delivering every note precisely
his choice of instrument producing a very warm and lyrical sound
when martin kay takes centre stage he also demonstrates great skill
his alto saxophone playing is also new to these eyes and ears
another case of another very skilled musician on the sydney scene
he knows his instrument very well and confidently pulls all sorts of sounds
a favourite being that kind of duck quack sound i've heard before
also a gentle whisper-blow into the sax to make the subtlest of sounds
and everything else in-between - some superb playing from the man
he also does the decent thing and thanks the small audience for being there
takes the time to explain the source of the material - with humour
i assume all the material is original - there's reference to a cd on release
every tune seems significantly different from every other - is good
the thing that struck me about this band was firstly the material
each tune standing on it's own and played with confidence
every musician contributing significantly to the overall sound
in one tune in particular there were 4 sets of hands in unison
each musician using their instrument to sound like each other
hard to explain but a pleasure to experience - you had to be there
likewise with another moment of brilliance coming from dave goodman
such an accomplished player he segued into a drum solo seamlessly
had me taken in long before i noticed he was the only one playing
which i think says something for his highly developed skills
(or possibly my zoning out of the music but i think not)
one thing i always enjoy with live music is checking the on-stage mood
here tonight there is a great camaraderie amongst the musicians
a sense of respect and admiration going in all directions
so again i'm left thinking we the audience have let them down again
though by the end of the second set there were about 15 of us lapping it up
all of us making as much noise as possible as they downed instruments
i'm now fearing for the future of this fine sunday night venue
gotta go out there and get some more people along
...if they only knew what they are missing

toni childs

yep - the lady herself - recording star from the late 1980's
a good friend and big fan of her first seminal album scored some tickets
she's playing at one of those big club mega-centres on the central coast
part of an australian/nz tour that sees her in lots of places like that
which may well suggest that's where her fanbase is now found
no worries - always up for some live music and so i'm in
sure enough it's a full house in the room she's playing
a large space with a stage and chairs set out in rows
no dance-floor, mosh-pit, or teenagers anywhere in sight
average age - about 55 i reckon - lots of middle-aged couples
which makes perfect sense - she was big on commercial radio 20 years ago
loved by women mostly, given due respect from music-loving men
her material and delivery nicely slightly left of centre
most striking back then was her powerful and unique voice
first tune tonight is stop your fussin' and her voice is as strong as ever
this of course has the crowd whooping it up and she embraces that
she takes the time to tell us a little about her life since fame days
graves disease knocking her down and out of the music scene
but she's back with a new album and loving it again it seems
which of course has major crowd approval and on with the show
there's a mixture of old and new in the set - all sounding solid
the band itself is an odd mixture of young local musicians
one on cello dressed to the nines and taking it very seriously
the bass-player in tracky-daks and flannel shirt and doing the job
drummer, 2 guitarists and keyboards player completing the lineup
the 6-piece band not doing anything to distract from the lady
she herself sticking with laying in the voice on the tunes
all in all it's a very pleasant musical experience to be had
though not until she gives permission to stand does it go up a level
the crowd happily on their feet and grooving away to zimbabwe
another tune from her first very successful album titled union
it's in this tune that her world music / peter gabriel connections shine
a nice african kind of groove and backing vocals from the crowd
so everyone feeling quite relaxed and enjoying this scene
this leads to demands for 2 encores from the crowd
toni childs herself seeming well chuffed with the response
all in all a successful night for all involved

speed your love to me

simple minds - one of my favourite bands of the 80's
saw them every time they toured, bought every album released
loved pretty well every tune they cranked out (except the big one)
but if i ever had to pick one tune for the desert island collection this is it
had forgotten all about it until a random search on youtube popped it up
reminding me of seeing them perform this in concert a couple of years ago
this is just an amazing piece of uplifting power-pop-rock-love-song
huge drum sound, driving bass, superb guitars, perfect keyboards
and jim kerr on vocals extolling his love to get her ass over here
...or words to that effect but the message is nuch the same
i must admit i hadn't taken too much notice of the video
but 25 years later and it's a real trip that it takes us on
a suggestion of heading on the freeway out of a city
a bit of psychedelic time-warp travelling stuff
then a burst out into the great outdoors
perfect - repeat play entirely possible
and better still - 2009 back in oz
woo-hoo for us minds fans

nick bowd quartet youtube

it's not high-res, high-fi, high-tech or high-anything
just 3 minutes of a great show captured on a digital camera
the sound is muffled, the video is grainy and the tune is truncated
they'll be paying big bucks to see at least one of these musos in the future
and this clip will be famous because it happened before fame and fortune
which of course is what everyone says about their youtube clips
especially as is this one - numero uno for me
but mostly i think it's just great fun
stick a camera in someone's face
post the result on youtube
marvel at the technology
enjoy the experience...

nick bowd quartet

the bohemian grove is an underground venue - figuratively speaking
it's actually 2 floors up in a warehouse in surry hills
apparently some of the local jazz fraternity live there
they part of the new wave of young guns in the sydney scene
i suspect frustration with lack of venues has driven them
so every sunday night it's an open invitation to their place
each night a local or touring act plays 2 sets at the venue
tonight it's the nick bowd quartet that is playing for us
the main man most recently seen in snap - the 4-part saxophone quartet
he's got drummer extraordinaire dave goodman also in the band
and megastar-in-waiting james muller on electric guitar
his claim to fame being a stage-sharing gig with john scofield
karl dunnicliff on double bass not seen before but he must be good
not a large audience - about 20 of us on lounges and milk crates
but such is the atmosphere at this place it doesn't really matter

my feeling is that this is the jazz equivalent of garage bands
on any given night chances are you will see something special
in this case about 2 bars of music confirmed that expectation
it's quite a gentle and melodic opening tune they are playing
nick bowd and james muller already into some nice harmonising
one of the sweetest sounds in jazz being sax and guitar together
there is serious concentration happening with all 4 reading sheet music
being a new band this indicating it's as much a rehearsal as a gig
i personally don't mind that - catch them at their rawest i say
but raw does not mean sloppy especially with this group
continuing a fine tradition in this town amongst the young guns
a clear dedication and love of their craft that drives them
nick bowd for one as leader, composer and saxophone player
i've only seen him once in snap on his baritone sax
but tonight he's playing a very fluent tenor sax
the rest of the band mostly playing around his lead
though in this long first piece he's happy to step aside
take up a seat like the rest of us and watch mr muller at work
who takes the lead and delivers some outstanding guitar sounds
this man is fast, fluent and very inventive with his playing
you can never tell what is coming and nor can he i suspect
a real sense of giving over to the moment and trusting his skills
it's hard to imagine guitar-playing getting much better than this
helped along by a rhythm section that is also holding their own
dave goodman on drums by reputation able to deliver the goods
and as suspected karl dunniciff is a very capable bass player
between tunes nick bowd takes the time to chat to the audience
briefly talking about his compositions or advising of covered tunes
in one case happy to admit the next tune only written the day before
and not yet played by the band so we are as new to it as them
this could be cause for concern but not with these musicians
watching this band interact on the fly is quite absorbing
their faith in their own and their peers skills well placed
the tune played a bit tentatively but to me also faultlessly
tradition at this venue means 2 sets so a chance to catch breath
and in the case of james muller time to study the sheet music
the second set sees the confidence levels go up a notch or 2
me thinking that this is a quartet that could really go places
a fine balance of sounds, great skills and excellent material
and also not afraid to stretch out with some interesting covers
a steve reich piece in particular challenging james muller
his stunning chops playing now replaced by repetitive chords
dave goodman's drumming now also stretched with some tub-thumping
karl dunnicliff again seen to be playing at speed all over the bass
in the final piece titled arrival nick bowd plays his baritone
lets rip with some deep and rich blasts from this large saxophone
a shame it all has to come to an end really as it's been fun
though there's a plug for an upcoming show for this new group
and a bit more of a permanent reminder - youtube'd

kirk lightsey quartet

kirk lightsey is a french-based american-born pianist of some note

has played with very many legendary jazz musos - dewey redman, etc
sima had been promoting his 3 shows at the sound lounge for months
i was out of town during the week and had planned on heading further west
but a change of arrangements made it possible for me to get back for the last show
a check of available tickets during the day and surprisingly not sold out so it's on
walking into the sound lounge and impressively it's a large crowd already there
including various respected musicians which is always a good indicator
same old story for me - a spare seat down front with a fellow single white male
things are a bit late getting underway but before long they are at it
kirk lightsey obviously loves life, music, playing, interacting
he's a very jovial, animated, cheerful chap - and not a bad pianist
in the first couple of tunes it's just him and the rhythm department
brendan clarke on double bass again demonstrating his very solid skills
andrew dickeson in suit as usual providing admirable drumming
i've seen these 2 often and mostly as the core of bernie mcgann's quartet
always impressive as a unit and tonight the same as they hold their own
in fact i'm feeling just a little bit proud that they are mixing it with this man
there's constant eye contact between the 3 of them as they lock it in
kirk lightsey leading with rapid-fire and melodic piano-playing
andew dickeson most visibly answering the challenge and mixing it up
all over his kit with a vast array of actions all with exquisite timing
as a 3 piece this outfit would be world-class but wait - there's more
eventually they set it up and extend the invitation to bernie mcgann
he's then on his feet and centre stage adding in another dimension
his beautiful alto sax playing starting a bit tentatively but soon perfect
his usual rhythm section locked in and the pianist fully supportive
but then the heat got turned up and the band just took off
i doubt that i have ever seen a 4 piece outfit so well connected
each player giving their all and appearing to be well into the moment
this confirmed by a brief chat to andrew dickeson at the bar at the set's end
he in awe of kirk lightsey and saying their tour had been a complete joy
sad that tonight it ends but at the same time promising a great second set
of which i have no doubt as they return to the stage as a 4-piece
their confidence sky-high as they launched into some more ensemble playing
a tune or 2 in and my ears caught big time with a familiar set of notes on the piano
followed by bernie mcgann using his sax to great effect to play so what
the miles davis standard from his classic kind of blue album
so i'm already on cloud nine musically and then this is happening before me
bernie mcgann playing this tune with clear love and respect for it
what a brilliant night of stunning music from these musicians
couldn't help myself - had to thank the man as he stood alone afterwards
kirk lightsey a gentleman in all respects as he embraced my gratitude
advised me to come to paris for a show he has coming up there
i wish - a clasp of hands and into the night i went
utterly, totally fulfilled musically....phew

valkyrie

it's a bit of a surprise that i even bothered with this one
for one i'm not a big fan of war films - the reality is too depressing
for another i'm not a big fan of tom cruise - but who is these days?
but - circumstances sometimes override such negative thoughts
in this case the previous evening i found myself parked in front of the box
a fairly rare occurrence these days but all is not lost - it's the abc i am watching
there's a late night documentary being viewed about the valkyrie project
using lots of archive footage and actors reconstructing the events
relative ignorance of this moment in history now overcome
a realisation of it's significance and how close it came to changing the world
or at least had it succeeded how many millions of lives would have been saved
so in discussion with my hosts of the moment it was agreed the film should be seen
and lo and behold it's on at the local picture theatre on this night - so off we go
tom cruise plays the part of colonel claus von stauffenberg - the main man
the film opens with him on duty and in retreat in north africa in 1943
some deference to the origins of the story with the use of language and sub-titles
but a very quick transition to english as the man is seen writing his diary
expressing his concerns for the fate of his beloved country under adolf hitler
cut to some action as they come under attack and he is badly injured
these scenes providing some quite shuddering realism of the brutality of war
and also leading me to bracing myself for the possibility of a long ride
he is relocated to a hospital back in germany having lost an eye and his right hand
upon release he then fnds himself working closer and closer to the despot
exposure to the inner workings means he can then plot the takeover plan
during this part of the film the other main characters are introduced
in large played by british actors but to their credit convincing as germans
there's only a touch of romance as von stauffenberg's wife has a minor part
she beautiful and passionate - he handsome and caring but detached
intentional or not it is clear that their relationship is quite inconsequential
the main focus of the story kept on the planning and execution of the plot
in my case this all helped with the previous nights documentary in mind
though significantly some clear differences in interpretations of events
relatively minor but still a reminder that this film also may be subjective
that aside the film succeeds in portraying the seriousness of the times
it's quite dark but so too are the circumstances in which it is set
this is a war film after all but thankfully action scenes are limited
the emphasis placed very deliberately on the people involved in the plot
adolf hitler in a few scenes and the actor providing the necessary trepidation
tom cruise very capably playing the hero of the film with good effect
in the end of course the plot fails and hitler continues his reign of terror
possibly and as suggested with renewed vigour for another 10 months
during which time many more millions of people perish in europe
as the credits rolled, and rolled, and rolled it was a time for reflection
the conclusion being that this moment in history was hugely significant
and that tom cruise has been involved in a successful story-telling
still not going to rush out and see more war or tom cruise films
but in this case a combination that has worked very well

preston reed

there's this little self-imposed rule that i observe
after x number of years working in the music 'industry'
and not pushing too hard for tickets, names on door, etc
when something does come along - accept the offer and attend
especially if it's something low-key and with some promise
in this case i had seen a grab of preston reed on qantas in-flight
enough to give a definite yes to attendance at his show at the basement
walking in pre-show and it's a very sparse crowd in attendance
i recognise the man himself walking around willing up the numbers
he like me probably wondering what is it with this city
4 million people and about 50 of them here tonight
of which most likely many such as me are on the 'guest' list
so a little bit of doubt creeping in about the attendance rule
until i notice there are 6 beautiful guitars lined up on the stage
a single amplifier, a chair and a microphone stand all set for use
on he comes, straps on the ovation acoustic, plugs in and fires up
i have never seen nor heard what came next from this one man band
he's playing the guitar with both hands dangling over the neck
both of them moving up and down rapidly to draw out complex sounds
the right hand also somehow finding time to tap the body of the guitar
so that there's a drum sound worked into the mix also
there are no vocals - no room or time for them i suspect
at the end of this first tune he takes time to welcome us
i'm a bit embarrassed for the lack of numbers but no problem
he's a very tall, imposing looking man and quietly spoken
he seems genuinely grateful for this opportunity to play
then plays a couple of more tunes in a similar way to the first
one of them very memorable - titled shinkansen - japanese bullet train
closing the eyes and the beat used to imagine being on one
3 totally impressive tunes but can he maintain this for a whole set?
the answer given when he swaps over to a stunning looking jazz guitar
sits down and plays a couple of tunes more conventionally
one titled street beat that is actually more a song than a tune
a simple structure but some more amazing skills on display
number 3 guitar is a long-neck acoustic 12-string
the first tune on this instrument is introduced as overture
and again easy to see why when he gets it up and running
so many sounds drawn out from one set of hands at work
i worry for his fingers and the strings when he's hard at it
but everything holds up as the room is filled with noise
he announces that he's so happy with this sound he does another
which had me thinking what total freedom he has on stage
no-one to defer to, no expectation, so he can play what he wants
a steel guitar is introduced with a compelling story from his youth
involving witnessing a german man playing a saw with a violin bow
this experience presumably influencing his own unconventional style
it's a great blues based tune that segues into a more rock-based sound
one tune only on this unique instrument and then it's a 6-string acoustic
any doubts about the ability to maintain interest for a whole set now gone
the small audience totally captivated and giving resounding applause
2 encores are demanded and supplied from this consummate performer
he does the necessaries in the promotions department
but with a sense of humour and total graciousness
he says he hopes to come back to australia soon
me thinking that one thing is guaranteed
an exponential growth in audience size
preston reed - world's best guitarist?
...quite possibly actually

the church

this one has been a looooooooong time coming
favourite band of all time - no question about that
first heard them 27 years ago and have seem them many times since
every album a gem - particularly number 23 just released in recent days
this show the final one in a week long set of dates through the eastern states
punctuated by 2 cancelled shows due to the hospitalisation of the main man
steve kilbey collapsing with some heart issues related to dehydration, etc
so up until even today there is some uncertainty about the show
i'm close to pinching myself as they come on stage and launch into it
marty wilson-piper now looking a full blown hermit buzz-sawing big time
steve kilbey plucking his beloved fender bass and owning the space it makes
peter koppes stage left looking like he has been transported from 27 years ago
tim powles up the back already contributing big time with some powerful drumming
that's me down on the floor thanking all the forces that allowed this to happen
there is not one group of musicians on this planet that mean more to me
so to start proceedings with tantalised is beyond my belief system
especially when mwp hacks away furiously in a way not seen before
clearly announcing his intent as usual to give his all and more
i'm thinking that it's like i'm seeing something very fresh and new
these guys looking and sounding better than i could have imagined
each tune given full respect, attention and effort from the band
interlude from uber-album the blurred crusade a total treat
don't know how many times i have listened and wished to hear it live
likewise the old live show closer of you took back with a vengeance
this tune owns the title of best introduction of all time
great intro tonight and then it just got better and better
there are 5 songs off the latest album played throughout the set
each one of them sounding like they have been played for years
such is the confidence of the band as they keep peeling them off
the only thing that had me worried was a relatively subdued audience
i used to put this down to a drug induced stoner haze
but tonight i think it was a bunch of stunned fans
like me hardly believing what was going on up on stage
blah, blah, blah, gush, gush, gush, enough, enough, enough
welcome back chasps - so very good to see you again
the church - sunday night - ides of march - perfect

rokia traore

megastar performance time on sunday night at womadelaide
this time on this night usually reserved for the year's star attraction
cesaria evora, femi kuti, jimmy cliff, youssou n'dour seen in previous years
this lady also seen previously in 2001 on a side stage in mid afternoon
probably the one act seen at my first womadelaide that set the scene
a decision made at that time to return every year to this festival
since then she has become a megastar of world music in europe
has released several stunning albums and a glorious dvd
filmed at a large concert in paris with her in all her glory
bare-footed, shaven-headed, superbly accompanied
a fine testament to the warmth, rhythm and sound of mali music
so basically - very high expectations for this main stage performance
the scene also set by being witness to a low-key acoustic set the previous night
dressed in jeans, telling long and riveting stories, singing beautifully
tonight is showtime on the big stage and a huge crowd in attendance
the opening number a comforting sign we were in for a real treat
a slow and strange beat, african feel, rokia's unique voice
so the expectation seemingly justified and excitement high
rumours had gone around of a 12-piece band joining her on stage
but disappointingly there are a total of 6 musicians before our eyes
rokia, guitarist, bass-player, drummer, backing singer, ngoni player
the ngoni a small stringed mali instrument of which she normally has 2
uh-oh - signs of a shift away from tradition towards contemporary
confirmed by the sighting of whitey-boys in the rhythm department
and the next number evidence of this shift with the band rocking out
it's a very loud, clean and hybrid sound that they making on stage
still definitely african based but with strong white-man overtures
me already thinking someone has told them the change is necessary
world domination beckons but compromises are required for that
so the purist in me saddened a little by this obvious change in direction
but then again - this is rokia traore - she is adorable - let it go
and with that i give over to what turns out to be a superb show
excellent sound, great lighting, stunning musicianship, megastar
i spent most of the night with eyes clasped on the lady herself
except for the times when she stepped aside and shone the spotlight
mr bass-player in particular now appointed the king of that instrument
in one outstanding solo he effectively stole that title from juan nelson
he the man alongside ben harper and with a similar virtuoso style
at the end of the set rokia went off stage leaving the band to have some fun
the backing singer stepping forward to show off her dancing prowess
another gorgeous lady now in the spotlight with all eyes transfixed
leading to a huge round of applause and a very happy audience
all in all a brilliant show from rokia, band and management (ahem)
guess you just have to keep moving musically these days

mihirangi

this lady had a very appealing writeup in the womadelaide program
and significantly her 2 appearances are on side stages at the festival
standing at the back of her previous day's performance quite enticing
leading to a desire to get a better spot at this late sunday performance
but seems the word is out - there's a huge crowd gathered pre-show
best spot literally side-of-stage as she takes to the stage and fires up
this involves quite an impressive process for this one-woman band
her approach is that she literally constructs music in the here and now
this is achieved by singing a line, strumming a chord, or making a noise
the clicking of the tongue, the tapping of a cheek, maybe a whistle or 2
then whatever the sound it is then captured and recycled repeatedly
so over the space of a minute or 2 there's quite a full sound happening
a virtual cacophony of beats and harmonies coming from the stage
once this is in place she then uses it to take up the role of lead singer
though not any kind of standard verse-chorus-verse-chorus stuff
her vocal style close to hip-hop and dare i say rap in in the delivery
with an added bonus that the lyrics to the tunes are quite discernible
but not content with that she then adds yet another element to the mix
her audience it seems is also an important part of the performance
the first few tunes enjoyed by most of the audience seated on the grass
but one word from mihirangi and everyone is on their feet and jiggling
good for me at side stage as an opportunity presented itself to re-locate
and so it was i found myself well positioned a few metres back centre stage
easy to get drawn into the rhythm she had worked up from nothing
also impressive to see close up how much was required to keep it going
she using her feet and hands constantly to get the mix right
a very clear indication of the concentration required to do that
but simultaneously she is clearly enjoying the moment with the crowd
plenty of smiles and praise coming from the stage between the tunes
being a kiwi her favourite expression of the crowd was 'awesome'
we're pretty impressed with her too so there's a great feeling all round
especially as she works the crowd through a call-and-response section
some very loud and inclusive singing from the crowd on world citizen
a totally contemporary tune with an infectious and constructed beat
by the end of the set it feels like party-time at the morton bay stage
everyone happy, everyone dancing, everyone i suspect very impressed
i'd be willing to suggest nz has a new musical star breaking out
it will be interesting to see and hear how she goes - great stuff

kaki king

operating somewhere between funk and flamenco
29-year-old kaki king has dragged the art of solo acoustic guitar back to prominence
with wild technique that blends soaring melodies and slapping percussion on her guitar
with an edginess that matches the temperament of her generation

so reads the womadelaide program for this sunday afternoon show

the timing and placement on stage 3 suggesting it is not a big drawcard

meaning the artist is still on the rise or has possibly peaked at a certain level

her age suggesting the former in this case - worth checking i suspected

got myself down in the mosh pit with the sun beating down relentlessly

there's a bunch of us on our feet enjoying the friendly atmosphere

a lot more people back of stage sprawled out on picnic rugs, etc

she's on stage fronting a 3 piece outfit - guitar, drums and mac

another example of a mac used on-stage to fill out the noise

in this case the operator feeding other noises into the machine

mostly by way of a hand-held flute-thing that makes an organic sound

then is distorted, enhanced, amplified, etc by the mac beyond recognition

mostly adding the necessary bass bottom-end to the group's sound

over on the other side of the stage is a drummer behind a standard kit

though with the high-hat raised high above his head for some reason

he himself looking like an outtake from a serious heavy metal band

and pretty well playing in the same manner with some big hitting

kaki king herself is centre stage and in charge of guitar and vocals

first impression - she is one very accomplished and confident guitarist

and not in any conventional singer-songwriter-guitarist mode of playing

the songs are there as is the band to fill out the sound as required

but very centre-stage is her very inventive noise-making skills

she has a very loose, all-over-the-place, melodic, solid sound

at times tapping the body of her instrument for percussive effect

other times both hands working on the neck and usually at speed

she interchanges guitars often including a lap-laid instrument

this used to great effect on a slower, quieter number in solo mode

there are lyrics and songs happening but they seem quite incidental

she also speaks a little between songs and tells a few stories

including berating her keyboardist for lusting after netballers

and maybe inadvisedly for this crowd telling us of her love of netball

seemed a bit odd really - but by this time nothing was unexpected

a definite case of don't assume anything about this performer

not sure the program got it right about funk and flamenco

but the diversity of styles was certainly in evidence

as they closed out with a couple of huge rock-based tunes

probably more suited to the big day out than womadelaide

but that's one good thing about this festival - anything goes

just got to go looking for it on the minor stages

she's really good - star on the rise i think

lo cor de la plana

day 3 at womadelaide - sunday - midday start - compulsory attendance
the buzz was out - this outfit had performed already and had wowed 'em
they are a polyphonic group - which i think otherwise means acapella
the big appeal for me is that a favourite cd of mine is another french group
coure de berra from the pyrenees - these lads from the city of marseilles
they are on the large stage 2 this afternoon - it's looking a bit sparse
as they are introduced they take up seats and start their singing
each one of them equipped with a tiny head-mounted microphone
it's a beautiful sound they make - exquisite vocals and harmonising
first impression is that they are seriously well rehearsed
there's not a note out of place as they sing it up magnificently
gorgeous, lush, strong, rich, powerful vocals - though in french
so no chance of focusing on the lyrics - it's the delivery that is the trick
at the end of the first tune it's wild applause all round for them
and possibly a few in the audience like me wondering about longevity
specifically how they will sustain interest for an hour or so
the answer given in the next tune with the inclusion of percussion
several of them now armed with hand-held drums or tambourines
adding a sound that sits below the vocals on the next few tunes
it's a great mix of sounds but there's also something else going on
a deep, solid bass drum sound coming from somewhere on stage
then i notice 2 of the lads moving their right legs quite energetically
hitting the stage at the same time as the bass drum sound comes out
so some foot-stomping going on to provide this bottom end sound
all very infectious really as the crowd moves into dance mode
lots of shrieks, knees-ups, clapping, as the tempo goes up a notch or 3
a few tunes like this and then another change in pace
they rise from their chairs and gather in a circle centre stage
what came next was possibly the best group vocal performance i have seen
6 men in black t-shirts, brandishing tattoos and skinheads going sweet
10 minutes or so of the most unbelievable vocal harmonising imaginable
the tune itself very complex with many changes in tempo and structure
and it's not just words they are singing - various other sounds are made
one memorable section being the sound of a swarm of bees in flight
the voices note-perfect throughout as they remained in position
and just when you thought it was over they would go to another level
drawing chuckles from the audience as the clapping falsely started
then in the final end an eerie silence as their voices trailed off
the audience waiting longer than usual to get the signal of tune's end
then ecstatic applause erupting for a very moving piece of music
and so it goes on - no chance of boredom - variety is the trick
the big finale sees the crowd linking hands and running in circles
as the band goes crazy on vocal and percussion on stage
the biggest bass drum sound, percussion and harmonies
wild and long applause as they take their bows
a unique womadelaide performance
...possibly the one for 2009

seun kuti and egypt 80

here's another performer living off dad's hard work
about a year ago i had saw ravi coltrane in concert
son of 2 famous musicians in john and alice coltrane
at womadelaide this year fela's son seun is headlining
fronting a band made up of musicians from fela's band
though not fela's co-conspirator and drummer tony allen
he's also at womadelaide but at the other end of this day
which has me wondering if there is some animosity there?
seun and band are the headline act on saturday night on stage 1
the crowd is large, the weather perfect and the expectation high
one thing that seems guaranteed at womadelaide is african music
especially big bands on the big stage at the peak performance time
the band ambles on and a tall african chap takes charge at front
he revs up the crowd, cranks up the band and off they go
in typical afrobeat style it's a very repetitive beat
with brass, hand held sticks and percussion laid on top
this tune does not vary in style for a full 15 minutes or so
during which various musicians are highlighted doing solos
at the end of the tune the man out front laps up the applause
he then thanks the crowd, introduces the band and then...
brings on the main man himself who has been in the wings
me and a number of other people thinking we were already watching him
but no - seems seun kuti wants the band and crowd warmed up for his entrance
i must admit i felt this was a bit big rock-star-ish from the big star tonight
he's dressed in matching trousers and shirt just like his father used to
then upon opening up the vocal chords it sounds like a time warp
i probably shouldn't be surprised that it's so derivative of his father
seeing as it's his father's band behind him but to me it's not quite right
my reaction based largely on seeing other kuti son femi a few years back
he also headlining womadelaide with his outfit called the positive force
on that occasion it was still afrobeat but it actually seemed authentic
memories of a bunch of musicians digging in to a filthy afrobeat sound
fronted by a performer totally locked in to the sound they made
the brass section and backup singers looking genuinely inspired
tonight it looks like brother is also into it but it seems to be an act
the movements, the voice, the music all so very clearly fela
this is not a bad thing - this is as close as we'll get to seeing him
but the impression is that everyone involved is ok about a tribute band
which is really what it comes down to - even allowing for the close relationships
i think what really got me was when the political lecture was trotted out
i've only see a bit of fela kuti on dvd but this talk seemed very familiar
updated for today's economic circumstances but still not too convincing
in reality i think i had already decided that i was being manipulated
and also deciding that as a singer, sax-player, leader seun kuti was unoriginal
his father and brother having already cornered the market in afrobeat
i think i was also suspicious that tony allen was not there for a reason
my guess being that he did not want to be part of this scene
respectfully carrying the legacy forward but...but...but
...just not as inspiring as it could have been
maybe i got it all wrong...

rokia traore (acoustic)

saturday night at womadelaide 2009 and the night mapped out
experience proving that advance planning pays dividends
pick the 2 or 3 acts that are most appealing and work around that
forsake other shows to get a good position or buy food and/or wine
but on this night things were changed with an unscheduled show
at the end of gurrumuls set on stage 1 and the usual announcements are made
annette shun wah as m c almost casually mentioning rokia traore about to appear
this lady is the star (for me) of this years festival doing 1 big show only
but for some reason she is making an appearance on a minor stage
not in any formal show but alongside seckou keita in workshop format
so previous plans abandoned to get to see this megastar in intimate mode
surprisingly there's space down on the grass in front of the stage
so i take up position there and get involved in some story-telling
the 2 of them taking time to talk about their ancestry and countries
stories of family life, griot tradition and tribal rivalries and connections
each story then leading into a tune featuring one or other and band
most of seckou keita's band on stage and rokia's ngoni (lute) player
it's a beautiful setting to witness this scene on the morton bay stage
named for the huge fig trees surrounding this relatively secluded area
there seems to be a high level of contentment on and off stage tonight
i get the feeling that the musicians themselves are enjoying the jam
even though this is billed as a workshop it soon becomes a performance
rokia obviously enjoying the opportunity to be relatively spontaneous
at one point while waiting for the kora to be tuned she takes the lead
with her acoustic guitar she takes over and performs a stunning solo
her powerful and beautiful voice used to full effect in this setting
reminding me of the first time i saw her 8 years ago at womadelaide
then also on a small side stage mid afternoon as a relative unknown
now a world music superstar loved and hugely patronised in europe
so i for one am very conscious of her humility in being on stage here
but as the performance went on it became clear this was a mutual thing
her and seckou keita not able to disguise the fact they were enjoying the moment
similarly for their musicians and back-up singers on stage with them
lots of smiles and laughs as they made it up as they went along
possibly a rare opportunity for these globe-trotting musicians
playing in a beautiful setting with a responsive crowd and no pressure
applause and gratitude coming in abundance at the end of each tune
the final one seeing a gracious rokia traore bowing and clapping the audience
seckou keita admitting that they would like to keep playing all night
which confirmed my thoughts that this was a very special performance
now - normal service resumed - back to the planned schedule
...so happy to have been witness to this one though

geoffrey gurrumul yunupingu

i reckon australia really does now have a world music star
over the years at womadelaide there's been many local acts perform
some very good, some average but all drawing on other cultures
reflecting the multi-cultural aspect of this country and it's music
so to see a performer with roots deep in the ancient country is a revelation
he's had a phenomenal year based on mega sales of his solo cd
thanks to some rave reviews locally and overseas by influential people
aside from that the haunting and emotional sound of his music is captivating
on this day at womadelaide it's a huge crowd gathered at dusk in front of stage 1
it must be intimidating even for a blind performer to play to such a crowd
but as the crowds he plays to get bigger so to must his confidence
though in reality i suspect he can very naturally perform faultlessly
last year at the aria awards he stopped a pumped up crowd in their tracks
then at another show i saw he wowed a sold-out enmore theatre
there using a string quartet to beautifully augment his lovely tunes
it's quite a magic feeling as he is lead on stage and the crowd falls silent
his companion michael on double bass as usual at front right of stage
and on this day accompanied by 2 other guitarists and a viola player
gurrumul then plays the opening notes of the opening track of the cd
and there's an almost collective sigh from the audience as he sings
the tune wiyathal as moving and emotional as it is in recorded form
from there the performance just does not falter at all in any way
each tune delivered confidently and beautifully to a captive audience
michael again doing the duties as m c and providing brief introductions
one thing i did notice in at least the people around me in the audience
there seemed to be a pervasive sense of pride and love going forwards
success will do that for any performer most likely but today its different
my feeling being that these other long time womadelaiders were very proud
happy to know that one of their own countrymen had cracked it big time
but then again - maybe it was just a real love for the man's music
whatever - no issue - just a great atmosphere on this beautiful evening
the whole album played and a few other tunes from the saltwater band
the set closed out with his signature tune titled gurrumul history (i was born blind)
a totally moving tune that i'm sure would have turned on a few tear ducts
as the last note was played there was a spontaneous standing
every person in the audience on their feet and clapping wildly
a lot of very happy people having witnessed the man live
a perfect performance from australia's world music star

speed caravan

an interesting writeup in the womadelaide program for this group
essentially one performer named mehdi haddab on an amplified oud
the oud being an ancient intrument of middle eastern origin
this man has effectively turned this fretless lute into a lead guitar
alongside him on stage is a chap playing a standard electric bass guitar
there's a percussionist seated stage right armed with a djembe drum
at the back of the stage is a lady noodling away on a laptop
it's a big, heavy, rock-oriented sound that they are making
much closer to led zeppelin than any traditional oud music
reminding me of a performance from a fellow algerian several years back
in that case rachid taha rocked it out also with a big amplified sound
he as lead singer adding his very masculine vocals to the mix
the music of speed caravan lacking vocals but otherwise similar
the clever name itself suggesting a twist to a known tradition
these days most of the music i witness would be androgynous
very non-gender specific in composition, performance and delivery
however witnessing speed caravan had me thinking otherwise
the bass player cutting an intimidating presence with his style
not only looking like someone not to be messed with
but playing his bass with all the subtlety of a sledgehammer
pounding out rhythms and poses in no uncertain manner
what really confused me was the person at the back of the stage
the sound and music of speed caravan close to standard rock fare
so seeing a laptop instead of a drumkit on stage was quite odd
and not entirely sure what sounds the laptop was generating
though presumably responsible for various percussive sounds in the mix
but with the big meaty bass and the very loud oud not much else was heard
the tunes continued to be rolled out but not much change in delivery
thudding bass, clever lead guitar/oud player, big rock poses and volume
there is only so much that can be done with their approach to music
with limited vocals and an intention to bludgeon people with noise
i sensed that the large audience in the late afternoon didn't mind
certainly a lot of people seen to be getting into the groove physically
and like me also kind of appreciating this new sound coming to us
the oud by nature making a guitar sound with a difference
but for me just too close to cock-rock for my liking
good to see another variation on world music
though probably not something for oud lovers
just a bit far removed from it's natural sound
still - good to see and hear - now - moving on

dengue fever

a psychedelic take on cambodian pop sounds of the 1960's
so read the program for this act appearing on stage 3 saturday afternoon
this band formed by a couple of americans specifically to impress in cambodia
but here they are at womadelaide presumably looking for a wider audience
for me sometimes it's a matter of taking a punt on something a bit off centre
the schedule such that there are gaps between more desirable performances
my experience is such that the unknown ones are sometimes the best
a small-ish crowd in front of stage - many more under shade of trees
an interesting introduction from stage 3 m c mr lucky oceans
telling us that we are about to witness another first for womadelaide
then deflating most of the expectation by using the word cheesy
hardly complimentary i would have thought but we decide to go with it
an interesting mix of musicians on stage for this band
most striking was a tall imposing bass player and hirsute guitarist
on saxophone a geezer looking chap with a pork-pie hat
keyboardist and drummer at the rear of the stage
and a stunning diminutive figure in pink up front
another case of a odd mixture of races, genders, styles
but happy to go with that on this day in this place - the mind is open
as they crank into action it becomes clear why mr m c used the word cheesy
it's pop, it's world, it's rock but mostly it seems to be all for fun
you only call me when i'm drunk - i can tell by your voice
it's the only time that you open up to me and tell me you love me
or something like that - all very much tongue in cheek stuff
there's a real sixties sounding organ at work adding to the flavour
i quite like it taking it purely as intended - a bit of fun
which admittedly made it quite unusual in this serious place
serious in the sense of the music delivered by other performers
i'm not so sure the crowd in attendance really got it
a lot of earnest looking people do some symbolic head-scratching
but the band ignored that and continued to churn them out
a mixture of english and cambodian lyrics mixed in also
apparantly they have hit the target in their chosen country
they may not rate this performance as a crowd pleaser
mainly because of the small number in attendance
but full points to them for a fun/serious show
all good fun really - nothing wrong with that

seckou keita skq

the zoo stage at womadelaide is not the place where the big acts appear
but over the years there have been some very memorable performances
a couple of years a fine band from west african guinea called ba cissoko were the stars
turned in a set in a mid afternoon of youth infused kora music of the highest order
i still recall watching their set thinking they are destined for fame and fortune
such was the successful integration of traditional kora with contemporary intent
then last year mamadou diabate just nailed it with a beautiful solo set
helped along in a few numbers by cousin and living legend toumani diabate
definitely a highlight performance at womadelaide of that and any other year
so it seemed like a continuation when kora player seckou keita was listed for the same stage
he is front and centre of the seckou keita quintet - the skq part of the band name
this is a very interesting looking lineup as they take to the stage
stage right is a chap on double bass looking like a serious classical musician
stage left is violin player with the looks of someone from a baltic group
at the back a percussionist dressed in traditional african garb
a female vocalist with a wild blonde hairstyle against her dark skin
the man himself casually dressed in typical western gear (i.e. jeans)
not that dress has anything to do with anything but in this case all contrasting
and bringing to mind a great symbol of everything womad stands for
a great combination of styles, races, genders, etc and sometimes as here on the same stage
someone in the program had suggested seckou keita is the jimi hendrix of the kora
maybe a drawcard or not but there's a big crowd in attendance this afternoon
i personally love the sound of the kora - a beautiful chiming harp like sound
unmistakably african and thanks to toumani diabate now very well known
works a treat in solo mode and can hold it's own in front of a large band
in this case there's a clear tendency towards a jazz/classical sound
the organic feel of the double bass nicely complementing the kora
even more so when the violin sound is brought into the mix as well
it's hard to pin the sound though as it sounds unlike anything heard before
the vocalist providing a lovely distraction with a strong african voice
mr percussionist a bit lost out the back but covering lots of bases
so when they get cranked up its a very convincing and seriously good sound
a lot of almost nervous looking glances on stage as they work at it
indicating to me some complexity in the structures of the tunes
this is not any kind of improvisation - each piece thoroughly rehearsed
seckou keita doing a fine job playing/dancing with his kora
throwing the head back i think at the joy of the sound
looking very happy with his quintet on this day
not sure about the hendrix comparison
he's out there somewhere on his own
another successful zoo stage kora gig