Do Australians really get funk? It’s a question that has perplexed many for years and the jury is still deliberating. The Brand New Heavies stopped by to give Aussies a sampling of their acidy funk and the fans seemed lubricated and elevated for their appearance.
The slightly middle-aged (or fast approaching) crowd were getting it on during what was a kicking Saturday night. Beer spills, stumbles, and loud conversations seemed to be the order of the night. After 20 odd years of plying their trade, this was an audience the Brand New Heavies would be able to get onto the dance floor.
Lead vocalist N’Dea Davenport greeted the venue with an energetic hello and the band launched into some of their most well-known songs. Simon Bartholomew on his white axe, Andrew Levy on bass and Jan Kincaid on drums were then joined by the horn section duo of trumpet and sax to get the party rolling.
“Back To Love”,”Never Stop”, “ Dream On Dreamer” and “Midnight At The Oasis” gave the doting fans on the floor something to shake their booty to under the endlessly spinning disco ball. Unfortunately, although the dance floor seemed to be energised and the rhythm was tight, the overall sound quality was lacklustre.
Davenport’s vocals were at times unintelligible and at other times inaudible. Unfortunately, this was not an event that was localised to one viewing/dancing spot nor to just one individual.
‘Stay This Way’ and ‘Dream Come True’ ended the gig and the ninety minutes of music from the Brand New Heavies. Memories are not made of this uneven set, and unfortunately an evening at home with the records would have been a much better aural experience. Alas, it was a gathering that did not meet expectations.
– Paul Busch
