Presented by Sally Anderson
Reviewed Wednesday 19th June 2013
With the popularity of such reality television programs as Australian Idol and The Voice (amongst others) our radios, televisions, computer screens and Facebook feeds have been inundated with a ceaseless torrent of aspiring singers desperate to claim their time in the limelight and prove their worth.
We’ve all become judges of a sort. What makes a good singer? Or better yet, what makes a bad singer? Are popular singers necessary good singers or are we drawn more to the arrangement of the music and, dare I say, Auto-Tune?
Let me tell you who a good singer is – Sally Anderson.
Following three sold out shows in the 2013 Adelaide Fringe, Anderson presents Jazz and Blues Diva. Can I tell you … I had to search on Wikipedia for the definition of ‘diva’. Obviously, I know what a diva is, but what IS a diva? She is a celebrated female singer of outstanding talent in the world of music. Stereotypically, she has a certain flair and unparalleled stage presence that demands and rewards our attention. Ladies and gentleman – the boot fits.
Anderson tells us the story of the jazz and blues greats of our history, with such classics as “Fever”, “Georgia on My Mind” and “Cry Me A River”, to name a few. Words cannot describe the silky smooth voice that Anderson commands with precision, power, sensuality and spirit. I was, in fact, so captivated, that I neglected to scribe page after page in my handy-dandy notebook. Anderson uses every inch of the small stage to her advantage. Her body movements and gestures are graceful, saucy and add that extra spice to her songs.
Anderson is accompanied by Shaun Duncan (double bass), Cameron Elphick (drums) and the legendary Kerin Bailey (piano). Bailey is a South Australian composer and master pianist. It was, in fact, playing his songs that fostered my appreciation and love of jazz and blues from the age of 6. Watching Bailey dance amongst the black and white keys is a show in itself, and his musical prowess is something to be truly admired. Duncan is classy, smooth, and a seasoned performer. His improvisations were crowd favourites. Elphick has certainly mastered the art of the drums, particularly during “Fever”, using only his hands, somewhat reminiscent of the bongo drum.
At only $20, there is no reason why you shouldn’t see this magnificent, professional performance. Treat yourself; you won’t be disappointed.
Reviewed by Nathan Giaccio
Venue: La Bohème, 36 Grote Street, Adelaide
Season: 27 June 2013
Duration: 1 hour
Tickets: $20.00
Bookings: Book at Cabaret Fringe Festival 2013
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