Incredible musicians show off their chops in this reimagining of the classic Stevie Wonder album ‘Innervisions’
Presented by: Adelaide Cabaret Festival
Reviewed: 19 June 2025
With Thirsty Merc frontman Rai Thistlethwayte at the helm and a setlist of Stevie Wonder hits, this was already shaping up to be a great night of music. The really exciting part of this show, however, is the reimagining. Along with acclaimed jazz guitarist James Muller and a talented band, Rai takes the songs from Stevie Wonder’s Innervisions album and gives them a contemporary jazz and funk twist.
Stevie Wonder’s songwriting, already grounded in soul, funk, and jazz, lends itself to this kind of musical play, and play is exactly what we see on stage. Rai and the band treat the album like a playground, trading solos, changing tempos and bringing a very modern funk sound to the arrangements. Don’t You Worry ‘Bout A Thing becomes a jazz waltz, All In Love Is Fair is stunning with solo flugelhorn by Mat Jodrell, Higher Ground featured Rai on guitar, leaning into a shuffle groove. Golden Lady became more of a ballad and featured guest vocalist Kate KS (and her adorable toddler). Kate’s voice is a gorgeous alto, but it did seem as though there wasn’t enough rehearsal time for this number, judging by the messy key change and an occasional uncertainty regarding who was taking what harmony. While most of the set was exceptional and polished, Living For The City, which included an en masse improv section that showed the entire band’s individual skill, also suffered from a few messy changes.
Rai is an impressive vocalist, that’s no surprise. Those who only know his work in Thirsty Merc, however, may not have a complete grasp of just how talented a pianist he is. Sparkling solos are peppered through the set, showing his jazz training. I only wish I had been sitting in a position to be able to see those fingers at work.
Through everything, Rai’s joy in music is evident, as is his admiration and respect for his fellow musicians. In some shows you wonder whether the band will even be acknowledged, but Rai introduced them before anyone had even played a note. This equal collaboration continued through the entire set and the group bow at the end of the show (accompanied by standing ovation) was well deserved. James Muller is a master of the guitar, making every solo look deceptively easy. Equally capable and talented were Brett Williams on keyboard and synth bass, Mat Jodrell on trumpet and flugelhorn, and Felix Bloxsom on drums.
This was a one-night-only performance for the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, but if any of these incredible musicians are planning to reimagine any other iconic albums, you’ll want to be there.
Reviewed by Kristin Stefanoff
Photo credit: Claudio Raschella
Venue: Banquet Room, Adelaide Festival Centre
Season: ended
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