Reluctant Star?

I went to see Sarah Blasko at the Forum on Friday night. Those who've read previous posts will not find this surprising considering my 'gushing' review of her new album. Despite significant press, glowing reviews and solid sales, unfortunately the gig was only half full. This was a real shame, as the night was exceptional, showcasing a mix from both albums. Her unique and stunning voice surely puts her as one of the best female performers at the moment.

With an 8 piece band, containing a viola (thanks Rich), double bass, cello, piano, drum kit, a couple of guitars and a 'studio rhythm section' a rich array of sounds filled the night, with one of the highlights being the resonating piano sections in 'Explain'. All songs except 'Showstopper' were played from the new album and it was amazing how 'on the money' all the songs were -as if they'd been touring for months.

I got tingles with the openings of 'The Garden's End' and 'All Coming Back', with the latter being the best song for the night. 'The Woman By The Well' managed to get the first ever 'shhh's' I'd heard at a non-jazz gig but resulted in a camp fire cosy type feel. 'Queen of Apology' probably left the pianist with cramp but was impressive how well the song came off, as -from a non-musician- it'd be a difficult one to pull of live. Other highlights from the new album were 'Hammer' with the killer chorus, 'Planet New Year' and my personal favourite 'Always On This Line' (which has a great one-take (I think) video clip).

Fan favourites 'Always Worth It', 'Don't U Eva', 'Remorse', 'Perfect Now' and 'At Your Best' gave any first time listeners a showcase of diverse offerings from the first album. Neither of the covers -'Flame Trees' and 'Don't Dream It's Over'- were played, while being favourites would've perhaps taken away from the main showcase being the new album.

Sarah's voice is amazing with most songs sounding as though ripped directly off the produced album. You couldn't fault any of the performances, although it appears she does struggle slightly with the attention that comes along with it. Having said that, I can't imagine how difficult it would be out there with hundreds of eyes watching and listening to your every move and word. In a recent interview in inpress:

Having "always thought of [herself] as someone who's not an extroverted person at all", Blasko's continually mortified at being spotted by people and the 'encounters' that go with.

which is I guess an unfortunate by-product of success. You just want to do something you love and push it out to the wider audience -which will generally mean endless mind numbing interviews asking 'how was it making this album?'- but once you're more successful, you surrender privacy as you're recognised and assumed to be accessible. Some people can do this, but obviously some are just private people like you and me.

If you have the chance, check out her gigs around Australia, otherwise go get the album!