The SongBirds. Banquet Room. 19 Jun 2015
Based in Los Angeles, The SongBirds are Australian Dannielle DeAndrea, Mexican-American Erica Canales and Guatemalan Gaby Moreno. Showcasing their multicultural origins, the trio perform a repertoire of early American blues, South America calypso and Aussie classics.
DeAndrea, Canales and Moreno start with a focus on the swing, jazz and blues of the American 1920s and 1930s, with tunes from Glenn Miller, Doris Day and an amazing version of Rum and Coca-Cola, popularised in the 1940s by the Andrew Sisters.
In homage to their location and DeAndrea's roots, the second half is dedicated to many of Australia's iconic artists, including Cold Chisel, Olivia Newton John and Hunters and Collectors. The mix of faithful and re-interpreted songs evokes an unexpectedly emotional response, particularly for stirring versions of Throw You Arms Around Me and Peter Allen's Tenterfield Saddler.
Each member of The SongBirds is successful and celebrated in her own right, and together they are sheer brilliance. Reminiscent of a modern day Boswell Sisters, their voices and personalities are as different as they are similar, but they complement each other wonderfully.
DeAndrea is an experienced performer with a strong and versatile vocal that she uses to great effect. Canales' natural talent and classical training combine to produce a truly impressive quality; she shines all night. With a more raw and unique style, Emmy nominee Moreno steals the show during her solo and lead numbers. Her voice is child-like and soothing, conjuring comparisons to other female artists with such strong vocal identities, such as Bjork and Julia Stone. You long to hear more.
The SongBirds save the best for last, closing the show with a blow-away encore. They step away from their mics towards the audience and silent anticipation falls. The suspense is well rewarded with a heart-felt acoustic performance of the gospel hymn Down in the River to Pray. Led beautifully by Canales, she is joined by DeAndrea and Moreno in chorus and with this they leave a lasting impression that warms the heart and mind long after the show ends.
Nicole Russo
When: 19 to 20 Jun
Where: Banquet Room
Bookings: bass.net.au
