lördag 1 Maj 2010, 3:16
Fri 30 Apr – Regina Spektor, Jupiter One
It all started with a big happy smile as Regina Spektor walked on stage, kind of bashfully and kind of gratefully taking in the applause. When the music began it did not stop! It was song after song with minimal banter and it actually worked perfectly.
The first few songs were played with her band of 3 others - a Cellist, Violinist and a Drummer. None of these were overpowering but added so much to the feeling and texture of her songs. They were also arranged amazingly beautifully. I felt like I was at some cross between a classical and a pop concert. Her gentle and playful and heartfelt nature always kept you engaged.
After jumping on the electric piano for Dance anthem of the 80's, the band stripped away leaving Regina stripped to just her and the microphone directly facing the crowd. She can hold her own and then some! I was impressed, but moreso just enthralled by her melody and story! She sure is in touch with her inner child…
Then it's hello guitar for the first time of the night, and the crowd lends many whistles which makes Regina jealous as she explains how its not fair that all the guitars get all the whistles haha.
Anyway, what made this memorable was how simple her guitar playing was. On the piano her songs have a billion notes, That Time Consists of 3 notes for the whole song on the guitar, and yet, it was JUST as enthralling as her other songs. Baffling and lovely all at the same time. A songwriter who tells a story and keeps it interesting without needing any crutches!
Moving back to the piano (done in slow motion humorously against the dramatic lighting and fog haha!), she continued to play on her own, dynamically, playfully, reaching vocal notes easily and filling us all with goodness! One song had her hitting a drumstick on a wooden chair and stomping the ground, and playing the piano with one hand. This was just as engaging as the other songs. It seems whatever she does is very engaging. Sometimes inviting you to laugh, sometimes to close your eyes, sometimes to imagine. She really took her stories, heart and soul all the way to Australia.
After the pseudo last song, the band came back on stage playing some real favourites. Her band are totally awesome, amazing and talented by the way.. Finishing the night on an uplifting note, and a feeling that you would want to remember and retain for a good while.
I found Regina to be absolutely amazing live, and it highlighted how much more fun it is so watch her, rather than listen to a recording of her from the studio. Theres something magical about her energy thats expressed, even with such minimal banter. When you're Regina Spektor, letting the music talk for you is not such a bad idea! I am super glad that I went, and recommend totally to anyone who has enjoyed any of her music.. I hope everyone else had fun :) This was the best sit down concert i've been to for a long time, probably since Tina Arena a few years ago.
Music is awesome huh?