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The Tivoli - Monday July 9 The Tivoli is packed with two distinctly different crowds this evening: teenage popsters weaned on Begin To Hope, and older hipsters here to judge if the Tori Amos comparisons hold water. Each bears a burden: for the former, the long wait, and for the latter, the absence of alcohol at the all ages, unlicensed event.
Ex-Moldy Peaches guitarist Only Son (Jack Dishel to his mum) plays a strong set of songs, although he owes more than a passing debt to Ben Gibbard, and he’s best when alone with his guitar and not singing with his iPod à la Panther. For her first-ever Australian concert, Regina Spektor hobbles on stage supported by a cane. Regardless, she’s very much on form, opening with an a cappella version of Ain’t No Cover. Those expecting a Begin To Hope victory lap are disappointed by her tempo-changing rendition of On The Radio and the slew of her earlier, darker material that follows it. Others, however, lap up songs such as The Flowers and Pound Of Flesh, both of which are pitch-perfect and demonstrate a prodigious piano talent. The youngsters only ‘get it’ when Spektor cracks out the schizophrenic Baby Jesus and performs it with such stunning vocal virtuosity that rapturous applause ensues. Spektor pulls out her guitar for Bobbing For Apples and That Time, although That Time is marred by the former crowd singing along word-for-word, even during the poignant moments (a community service announcement, if I may: when you go to concerts, do not sing along unless invited to – we didn’t pay $60 to hear Jane Jones of Darra perform her rendition of Fidelity). Spektor manages to close the set off with a bevy of her more-popular material, including a wonderful rendition of Hotel Song (with Only Son beatboxing) and a truly moving, slowed-down version of Samson, which ensures that everyone goes home satisfied. Watch out, Tori. CHAD PARKHILL
1. Written by Chris, on 18-07-2007 10:00
Wow. That review is the most elitist thing I've ever read. I suppose new fans are not able to enjoy the show on the same level as the older. Though I agree with the rule of no singing. It's concert etiquette.
I thought Only Son owes more to Adam Green from Moldy Peaches and Bob Dylan for influence. He did really well performing in front of audience who, for the most part, had no idea who he was. |
2. Written by Remy, on 21-07-2007 01:02
'Wow. That review is the most elitist thing I've ever read'
Agreed |
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