April 17 - 19 2009
2008 Compilation CD
To order by mail please go to the purchase tickets link and you’ll receive the sampler from this year’s festival program.Homegrown & Handmade
The 2008 Sampler once again includes a wide spectrum of musical expression and features both seasoned and emerginginternational, national and local musicians. The intention of the CD is to provide a window into the diverse array of music that each year makes up our festival. Space limits the content of the CD to 20 artists or bands and with so many wonderful tracks to choose from, the final selection is a huge challenge. The 2008 Sampler is certainly diverse and we hope hugely enjoyable to listen to.
The CD bursts into life with Rory McLeod’s love vignette “Patron Saint of Loneliness”. The punchy harmonica and density of lyrics are beautifully underpinned by Aimee Leonard’s driving bodhran and harmony vocals.
Fremantle phenomenon Rich’n’Famous continue the energetic mood and love themes with a live recording of “I’ve Seen You Before”. This song showcases some of the endearing qualities of this unique combination of players. They make a rare appearance at the 2008 festival.
A gentle lilting feel is the perfect platform for Kieran Halpin’s “Walk Like A Champion” – a gorgeous, anthemic song of resurgence and re-discovered “dance in the street” confidence.
The swinging sounds of WA band Adam Hall and the Velvet Playboys shine in “I Got News For You”. The track features a wild sax solo from American rock’n’roll legend Big Jay McNeely.
More homegrown music, this time with a boppin’ reggae flavour, comes in the form of “Nice Day” from young Mandurah band Sneaky Weasel Gang - great vocals over a neat arrangement
The mood turns rural with Jane Saunders who nurtures country dreams of “Dancing In The Rain”. The tough reality of years of drought is softened by the sense of optimism in this sweetly played song.
Junior is an acoustic based pop trio that emanate from South Australia. “On My Own” is a real-life story – a statement of independence in what might otherwise be a time of trouble – another dimension in the exploits of love - very solid playing, strong vocals and a catchy chorus.
“The Counting Song” comes from original Melbourne band TinPan Orange. Here is an entrancing song about love. The very cool acoustic feel builds nicely in parallel with the numeric progression that so cleverly ties this song together. Very impressive.
“Yasu” by Canberra trio Camoon instantly conjures the kaleidoscopic pulse of a Turkish market place. The virtuoso playing of oud, violin and darbuka is both sensitive and evocative.
“Too Many Children” is a song tinged with sadness as Alex Legg reminisces on unfulfilled childhood dreams. The gradual shifts in dynamics in the lyrics and arrangement add to the emotional mood of this rousing song.
“Singing Drink Shop” is a sweet swinging ditty from Jane Germain written for her daughter. It celebrates a few simple but important joys of life – playing music and the company of family and friends.
“When Two Worlds Collide” by Kimberley singer/songwriter Patrick Davies speaks gently of racial and cultural division. Thoughtful lyrics are heightened by the delicate guitar picking and plaintive harmonica.
“Planxty Darryl Rogan” is an exquisite piece for harp and guitar from virtuoso Andy Rigby. A “planxty” is a tribute – in this case for a lost loved one. This tune is joyful and the playing is heavenly – a tribute from the heart.
“Miss Rowan Davies” is a lyrical Scottish tune played by local Celtic heroes Dougal Adams and Ormonde Waters. The wooden flute, concertina and guitar playing are both flawless and beautifully complementary.
Chris Duncan and Catherine Strutt continue the Scottish theme with the “Lady Eliza Lindsay Set”. Piano and violin combine effortlessly in this set of Scottish hornpipe tunes.
The musical tradition is transported back to Australia with Jenny M Thomas’s fresh interpretation of the folk classic “Bound For South Australia” – a lively interplay of voice and fiddle and a great song to sing along to.
“The Wolf and the Moon” by Zulya and the Children of the Underground features Zulya’s haunting vocals in her native Tartar language and an unusual backing on traditional instruments. The undulating feel develops a hypnotic quality - truly unique and engaging sounds.
“Quentin’s Tarogotina” by Ozmosis draws on the musical flavours of central and eastern Europe. Joyous and soulful reeds soar above and weave between the exotic rhythms created by guitar and percussion.
A capella music can be many things. With the Ballpoint Penguins and their quirky song “Head Holiday” it is not only the well mannered combination of gorgeous voices, it is their trademark off-beat and original comedy that makes this trio both appealing and great fun.
The CD closes with “Two Left Feet” a tune from Melbourne guitar ace Michael Fix. His obvious dexterity, the ragtime piano feel and the subtlest of percussion create a concise and well-crafted musical package. This “Australian Two-Step” is dedicated to all non-dancers. You can dance to this!
You can purchase the CD at the festival, or order a copy by mail using our on-line order form. [Ticket and CD order form]. Compilation CDs from previous festivals will also be available at the festival.
Track Selections by Reuben Kooperman and Steve Barnes
Track Notes by Reuben Kooperman
More info on festival artists...
latest update 06/04/2008