Brudenell Social Club, Leeds - 24/1/12
A last minute recommendation from a reliable Twitter pal and I was down for this free gig just as Baldwin was readying himself to take to the stage - one man and his double bass, an instrument that has seen a resurgence in these incongruously analogue times. His other instrument is an incredible voice - a floating, gossamer-like thing which seems to be just an extension of his breathing. The contrast between the instrument and the vocals lends a detached yet very moving quality to the total sound - I've never quite noticed the double bass operate as percussion before but that was the startling effect created.
Baldwin is the bass player with New York scenesters The Dirty Projectors whose Bitte Orca album I adore for its daring, subtle meolodies. As a solo artist he straddles the octaves effortlessly, maintaining an impressive control of the bass that at one point seems to be coming from another sound source - the thud of the instrument is at odds with the gentle winding of the voice, he makes it look effortless.
The crowd is attentive and, in my case, aghast. It's quieter than most fee-paying events and I'm guessing most are here on spec, spotting a cheap night opportunity. We are privileged indeed to see such a rare and individual talent. When I get home my Twitter feed is full of excited chat about this gig and his first UK appearance in London the previous night. His banter has been warm and generous - his unbelievable talent, hitherto largely hidden as an ensemble player, now brought into the light to marvel at. Privileged indeed.
Here he is at the Cargo, London (23/1/12) thanks to Liz on Twitter.
No comments:
Post a Comment