Friday, December 5, 2008

REVIEW: Gin Wigmore

Gin Wigmore
Sale St
Thursday 4 December
Words and Photos by Charlette Hannah


Gin Wigmore

Niall Anderson

Wayne Bell











Gin Wigmore is a pretty awesome talent. If you haven't heard her yet, where have you been? You're missing out. On a rare occasion we are lucky to see not only a great songwriter and a fabulous singer, but also a great performer.

From the first notes tinkled out by Sydney pianist Niall Anderson, Gin was up on her toes, dancing and singing. She wasn't still for a moment. Taking the extremely enthusiastic crowd through a rollicking (and occasionally down-tempo) set, Gin was clearly a popular act. New bar Sale St was packed out, and it's not a small venue.

Gin has an unusual husky voice that is even richer live than on her EP. Playing acoustic guitar, she was backed up by Niall, and local percussionist Wayne Bell (who has played with almost everyone in New Zealand it seems: Bic Runga, the Finn brothers, The Bads, Carly Binding. Shona Laing, Barry Saunders, The Darlings, Splitter, When The Cats Away, Jenny Morris, Jordan Luck to name but a few) on the maracas and other assorted delicacies.

Gin's music is mostly upbeat and driven, with the occasional "singer-songwriter indulgence" (quote) in her more mellow downbeat songs. It seems this woman can do happy and sad with equally impressive results. No matter what she's doing, her voice is incredible. The audience sang along to all the songs from her EP and her single 'Under My Skin' got a rapturous reception.

The whole band was lovely to watch, with everyone grinning most of the time. Gin is an entertaining and lively performer, and I just can't think of a single thing to grizzle about.


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