Bennetts Lane, Melbourne 11th May 2004 - Review

Sometimes it's not about having a 15,000 strong crowd. Sometimes, it's not about having a hundred screaming girls in the front row. Sometimes, it's not about how many guest artists, flamenco dancers or robotic dogs you have.

Sometimes, it's all about getting back to basics.

The Cat Empire took the 250-odd people lucky enough to get a ticket to Bennetts Lane Jazz Club last night (Tuesday, 11th May) back to a time when crowds were small and jammin with mates was the most important thing.

On a small stage, the boys looked tired, but up for a big night. Ollie seated behind a beautiful black grand piano was right at home. His solos featured all night, and (as usual) had true Ollie flair and incredible technique.
Ryan, Jumps, Will and Felix (on Congas and Bongos rather than Timbales) all gave it everything, but the night belonged to Harry - he didn't stop all night! If he wasn't blowing his horn, he was singing (including a sensational beat box solo in 'In my Pocket') or just keeping the crowd laughing all night. There are a million clichés that could go here about Harry, but you get the drift.

It was a night for new songs and tracks that you don't hear often (no Hello or The Chariot). One of the highlights of the night was a new track written by Felix called The Miserere. Slowing the tempo down, the crowd were left speechless by it. Not only can the boy write a melody, but the intricacy and simplicity (if that makes sense) of his lyrics is beautiful.

While I doubt this was their best ever gig, it was certainly right for venue, the crowd and the jazz festival vibe.

Sometimes, you just feel lucky to be in the right place at the right time!

Setlist
The Sun
The Rhythm
Days Like These
All That Talking
The Lullaby
In My Pocket
The Miserere
How to Explain
Protons, Neutrons, Electrons
The Night that Never Ends