NOTES FROM UNDERGROUND
The Basement, of course, has hosted many hundreds of famous musicians during the 39 years of its existence. Fame, however, has to start somewhere, and the venue has a philosophy of using its stage to foster musicians who are not so much at the summit, but rather the foothills, of their musical careers.
One of the ways in which we do this is through a monthly showcase night called (portentously, with punctuation) The Basement Introduces …
These nights throw the spotlight on one or two acts which have been around long enough to earn their chops and have steel in their spines – serious performers, in other words, recordings under their belts, and gig-hardened.
On a Basement Introduces … night the selected acts are both introduced and interviewed on the stage, giving the audience a chance to learn a bit about motivation and approach. In the past few months the shows have featured some stunning talent, including Brendan McLean, Tiger Town, Henry Fraser and the Echo, and the extraordinary Five Coffees.
Included in the line-up for the next showcase – on Tuesday, September 6 – is a real discovery: Katoomba’s Swingtanic Sextet. With a big horn section, and liberally plastered with greasepaint, the band present a wild and compelling admixture of punk cabaret, Berlin via the Blue Mountains.
Their Basement debut should be a show to remember.
We have six double passes to the show to give away. To score one, just phone The Basement box office on 9251 2797.
Arguably at the other end of his career is Mississippi-born soul legend Syl Johnson, who cut his first records in the 50s with Junior Wells. He has continued to churn out hits ever since, being feted by Public Enemy and Wu Tang Clan along the way.
Mr Johnson, backed by the rhythmic might of Australia’s Bamboos, hits The Basement stage on Saturday, September 3. For soul fans, this will be the gig of the year (except maybe for The Temptations, who play the venue on Tuesday, October 11).
We have six double passes to the show to give away. To score one, just phone The Basement box office on 9251 2797.
For a complete rundown of The Basement gigs: www.thebasement.com.au
Contact the writer: amasterson@thebasement.net.au
BY ANDREW MASTERSON
