GIG REVIEW: Ash Grunwald
- Posted on July 21, 2008 5:10 PM
- 1 comment
Ash Grunwald
The Borderline
July 2008
Aussie Roots and Blues artist Ash Grunwald never pre-plans his set list. “It just doesn’t feel natural”
When Grunwald headlines The Borderline in London, the punters hug the stage in anticipation. They’re a mixed bunch; one Perth lad in a Glastonbury T-shirt tells me this is the 19th time he’s seen Ash live. There’s just something about Ash.
The musician’s bare feet and ‘just walked off the beach’ aura is not something you see in central London every day. Damn it - we miss it. He sits alone, head bent over his guitar, dreadlocks swinging to the infectious beats. Who needs extravagant lighting, reams of equipment and a backing band when you’ve got raw talent? It’s easy to see why Ash made such a good radio presenter at Triple J. The man has charisma and a constant smile; the entire crowd feels like his friend.
Ash’s set isn’t perfect and he takes risks that don’t always work. The effect? A unique, heartfelt stormer of a gig. His knowledge of Roots and Blues is extensive, his passion for beats infectious and despite the awards behind him, it’s obvious that this is a man who lives for playing live. Thank the musical gods above he does… our soot-rimmed ears need it.
As his fingers twang against guitar strings, the surf-addict tells stories of home and the punters listen in awe. Feet pound the floor boards in time with the pounding bass and we unleash the Funk within on an impromptu dance floor. Crowd favorites ‘Serious’ and ‘The Dolphin Song’ sit amongst new breakbeat infused gems from his new album ‘Fish Out Of Water’. It’s hard to believe one man can make so much noise. The sooner he’s back in town, the better. I’m already wishing the months away. A dose of Ash Grunwald a day keeps the homesickness at bay.
Catch Ash for a free gig at the Shepherd’s Bush Walkabout. Wednesday July 27th.
Related links:
Ash Grunwald concert tickets.Ash Grunwald's official site.
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Comments (1)
buddy boy
Was at that gig, Ash rocked! Although he isn't from Byron Bay, he is from Victoria. And what's this about about him not hitting every note?? The guy is like the best blues singer around! I dont know of many blokes who get up to those Aretha style notes. Hurry back Ash.
Posted on July 22, 2008 5:42 PM
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