Bowerbirds

Brudenell Social Club, Leeds  - 3 May, 2012

I should take notes at these gigs. Adjectives and observations flood over me but as I walk out of the venue I can sense them drifting into the night air. On this occasion I recall 'ethereal', 'intricate', 'lovely', 'cinematic' and 'filigree' (the latter prompted by an oblique feeling that the Cocteau Twins had just entered the room). These are words not necessarily associated with the making of music but Bowerbirds are like that, they offer an experience which is far greater than the sum of its parts. All that's required is an open mind and a readiness to allow the sound to wash over you.

I'm not sure if they've listened to the Cocteau Twins. They are miles apart in many ways but it was the coming together of the various elements that reminded me of them. Filigree  - "delicate and intricate ornamental work made from gold, silver or other fine twisted wire".

The parts that equal the sum comprise five members who (apart from the drummer) swap instruments at will. The ingenuity and prowess is boggling and there is a confidence and ease which transmits an air of purpose and belief thoughout the room. Philip Moore's vocals rise and fall across a series of complex melodies that occasionally coalesce against a major chord. For the most part the vocals are yes - ethereal - semi-spoken at times but catching the flight of the syncopated rhythms which skitter and nurdle underneath. There is SO much going on yet the skill of this band is in rendering it so unadorned and naked. The harmonies are glorious and the warm open air feel disguises the darkness of the songs - they write and sing of nature and of its cycle, the death and the renewal.

The latest album 'The Clearing' is yes - cinematic - and moves them away from the more folky production of its two predecessors. Tonight, they are stretching out with the new material, showing off a bit with an easy air to their body language and occasional chats with the audience.

Just over an hour later and I'm scratching my head, trying to find the words. It doesn't matter. I've been left with a feeling of powerful warmth that will eventually translate into words. Maybe it won't - that is the beauty of live music.

http://www.bowerbirds.org/