I’ve got some great notes on this gig as it was one of the richest of the fest, so here goes. I saw the best hearts in the audience divine in the classic drunken trumpet sounds that have progressed throughout Kid Koala’s numerous albums, performed live. To a dedicated fan, it would be easy to say that Eric San is on top of his game, and I anticipate more exciting sounds from this prized Canadian artist.
Though Kid Koala’s appearance was sponsored by the Jazz Festival, it would seem that the majority of the crowd was there due to Eric San’s (Kid Koala’s) established fan-base, rather than advertisement from the Jazz Fest. This is in spite of the Fest’s incessant adverts for this year! For starters (and openers), Kieran Hebden/Steve Reid drew a sizable crowd to the floor, which grooved to their unique synth sounds. Tracks from Steve Reid were executed live with admirable skill, and their set was concluded by appreciative applause. Reasons for this applause: a unique combination of live drums accompanied by various electronic bric-a-brac seemlessly melding multiple waves of sound: one didn’t just jive to the traditional break-beats, juxtaposed with a deep base line, but also to the soulful grooves and experimental cell-phone-cum-modem-tone noises, showing off a well-rehearsed experiment of harmonious cacophony. Click for more…
KK Opened with singles from his new album, “Your Mom’s Favourite Dj“, on FOUR turntables. His unique method of communication with the crowd via felt-pen-inscribed school plackards encourages a fun, positive atmosphere. Frequent smiling and waving at the crowd from Kid Koala instilled the sense that even a first-time concert goer would feel comfortable, and established a sense of camaraderie among everyone.
Allusions and interpretations of favourite tracks from known hip-hop artists such at Q-Tip, A Tribe Called Quest, and Del tha Funky Homosapien were some favorites. KK showed off newer interpretations of jazz and blues tracks, including Florida Blues, which was a treat. But the best treat of all, I tel ya, was when KK performed the never released, only available on live footage track “Moon River” — a slow-downed classic scratched apart in beautiful harmonies by Eric San.
KK’s ability to use the scratching of recorded instruments on LPs is nothing short of remarkable which, while recognized by jazz-based associations such as our beloved Jazz Fest collective, proves that Jazz itself is dynamically progressing into yet another generation. Presented with the Commodore’s incredible sound and lighting system, the show was a treat enjoyed by all who attended. Hope y’all had an awesome time.
Feedback & Comments, welcome!
Review Credit: Valuable Notes on the show co-provided by Casandra Du-Hamel, another fan of KK’s
PHOTO CREDIT: TW_Shane’s Photostream
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