NOTES FROM UNDERGROUND

For those with stamina, allied with decidedly eclectic tastes, the evening of Wednesday October 5 at The Basement offers a charming challenge.

On that night the venue is hosting not one but two full shows, with live music pumping until long after the good and golden amongst us have toddled off to bed.

First up, in the usual evening slot, is Australia’s finest a’capella quartet, The Idea of North. The ARIA Award winners have been warbling sweetly now for nigh on two decades and are, without doubt, the most melodious thing to ever have come out of Canberra.

They’ve been compared to Britain’s legendary Swingle Singers, but the comparison, while flattering, is only partially accurate. The Idea of North’s repertoire is more diverse, more challenging and, frankly, less cloying.

A show by the quartet is an always entertaining experience, and a delight for their legion of fans. If you feel like checking them out, we have four double passes to give away. To score one, simply call The Basement box office on 9251 2797 during office hours.

Coming up at midnight in the same evening is something very different: a high energy joyous performance by South America’s most popular ska band – Desorden Publico, from Venezuela.

The show by the musically manic sextet marks the triumphant finale of the Pura Vida Latin Festival, which is bringing dozens of brilliant Latin American acts to Sydney over the next couple of weeks.

Desorden Publico (the name means “public disorder”) bring a distinctly tropical undertone to the ska genre, but retain the form’s essential nuttiness. Think Madness mixed with Ricky Martin. It’s a late night, yes, but the show promises to be one of the gigs of the year.

As always, we have four double passes to give away. To score one, simply call The Basement box office on 9251 2797 during office hours.

For a full list of gigs at The Basement: www.thebasement.com.au

BY ANDREW MASTERSON

Contact the writer: amasterson@thebasement.net.au