28 Aug – Glenn Cardier, Arrebato, So What

Glenn Cardier

Arrebato

So What

Glenn Cardier – ‘…a true Australian music legend’ (Peter Noble, Bluesfest) ‘4.5 Stars!’ (Anthony O’Grady, The Australian) ‘A revelation! Imagine an Australian version of Warren Zevon – smart, clever, pithy lyrics and a dry, sardonic delivery.’ (Stuart Coupe) In 2016, Glenn Cardier released his critically acclaimed ‘Cool Under Fire’ CD and picked up first place win in the International Song Competition for his song ‘A Case Of Mistaken Identity’. He appeared at Bluesfest that same year. Cardier’s story is an intriguing one. He first came to prominence in the 70’s with a string of albums and performances with the likes of Frank Zappa, Fairport Convention, Manfred Mann and Spike Milligan. He played Sunbury (twice), toured the English folk circuit, performed at the Sydney Opera House. Then he drifted away from the music scene for 20 years only to re-emerge as an independent artist with a string of highly acclaimed CDs and performances at every major festival in Australia. ‘There’s no-one else on the Australian music scene quite like Glenn Cardier; from the finely chiselled storylines, and the razor sharp observations to the off- kilter delivery of his cryptic vignettes, he is a genuine one-off, a maverick, and you wouldn’t want it any other way.’ (Rhythms Magazine 2012)

Arrebato Ensemble is contemporary flamenco with edge. The acclaimed flamenco guitarist Greg Alfonzetti is joined by Byron Mark (cajon, percussion and piano), and dancer Macarena Platt. This new lineup creates passionately moving performances combining incisive ensemble playing, masterful solos and the beauty and power of flamenco dance. Their most recent album ‘Sofia’s Dream’ was released at the end of 2018 with a memorable launch at the City Recital Hall. They then went on to tour all around Australia in 2019 to numerous regional and coastal venues. Arrebato are now currently working on composing new repertoire as they continue to explore their passion for flamenco with a contemporary twist. The group’s first album snared them the Best World Music Artist at the MusicOz Awards. And performances at WOMADAdelaide, Sydney Festival, Apollo Bay Music Festival, Sydney Opera House, International Australian Festival of Chamber Music, followed. The second CD Absolución, was launched at the Sydney Opera House in 2011 to a sell out audience and also enjoyed rave reviews. The group’s previous albums drew critical acclaim with John Shand describing that while their music “moves from pure flamenco in favour of a more contemporary style, the spirit, a dramatic, sexually charged and haughty sadness, remains intact.” (SMH).

So What brings a high-energy, harmony-rich blend of rock, pop and dance-floor favourites to round out the night with a burst of colour and groove. This Northern Beaches six piece is known for tight musicianship, big vocals and a setlist that moves effortlessly from 70s classics to modern pop. Maxine and Louise lead from the front with powerful, polished vocals and a natural on stage chemistry that gives every song its spark. Peter shapes the band’s sound with lush Nord keys and modern synth textures, while Paul adds crisp, funky rhythmic guitar and tasteful solos that always serve the song. In the engine room, Noel lays down a warm, locked in bass groove that pairs perfectly with Adam’s tight, dance ready drumming – a rhythm section built for movement, feel and that unmistakable So What pulse. Together they deliver a polished, feel good show packed with songs you know and grooves that pull you in. Expect a lively, upbeat finish to the evening – the kind of set where you recognise every tune, sing along without meaning to, and leave with a grin.