NOTES FROM UNDERGROUND
Common wisdom has it that there are two forms of music that do not have a following in inner-city Sydney – country and folk.
Ahh, but we are a shallow crowd at times. Change the label and it can be a different matter altogether. In the murky shadowlands between the two genres lies a third, called Americana. And Americana, despite its rural roots, is very hip in the Big Smoke.
The Basement has lately hosted impressive gigs by some of the big names of Americana, notably Justin Towns Earle and Michelle Shocked. When pressed, however, both these fine artists would admit to a debt to what is arguably the longest-running Americana band in the business – a fantastic mob called The Amazing Rhythm Aces.
The band, surely godfathers of the US roots music revival, formed in Knoxville, Tennessee, in the late 60s. The odd change in line-up and occasional hiatus notwithstanding, they have been setting the standard for down-home US music ever since. For anyone with an interest in Americana (or country, or folk), The Amazing Rhythm Aces are a must-see act.
The Basement is proud to present the act on Wednesday, August 17. We have four double passes to give away. To score one, phone the box office on 9251 2797 during office hours.
Just as legendary, but a lot more local, is Sydney singer-songwriter Jeff Duff, who this month launches his latest album, Fragile Spaceman, at The Basement on Saturday, August 13.
Mr Duff – or Duffo, as he prefers – began his career in 1971, fronting jazz-fusion shock band Kush, playing both Sunbury music festivals. A shift to Britain found him working with many of the New Romantic movement, including Boy George, as well as putting out the odd charting single.
His new album conjures a very Bowie-esque mood, blending intricate melody and surreal lyrics. This fact was recently recognised by none other than Mr B himself. His official website, davidbowie.net, gave Fragile Spaceman a long and highly complimentary review.
We have four double passes to the launch to give away. To score one, phone the box office on 9251 2797 during office hours.
For full details of gigs at The Basement: www.thebasement.com.au
Contact the writer: amasterson@thebasement.net.au
BY ANDREW MASTERSON
