:: Sarah Blasko - Ruby's Lounge, Belgrave - November 2005

By: Carmine Pascuzzi

This was a show I was eagerly awaiting. Sarah Blasko has spent most of the last three months overseas, touring her debut album ‘The Overture & The Underscore’ and gaining very good reactions. Ruby’s Lounge is an intimate setting, enabling the artists to be close up to the crowd. The venue is a long way from the city so it was predominantly a local outer suburban audience and the show was sold out in advance. I was there in time to see most of the set by The Devoted Few and they proved to be most accomplished – bringing much power and energy through their three guitarists. Singer/guitarist Ben ended up having a busy night as he later took up several roles in Sarah’s set.

Much anticipation gripped the audience as they awaited Sarah’s arrival on stage. Then, as if we were taken on a special magical journey, Sarah and band proceeded to play a fine set to a crowd that had built to near capacity. Despite a couple of small technical hitches, the band is working very cohesively, despite the musical chairs involved when various members have to alternate tasks. Sarah has her own way of endearing herself to audiences and her singing was a treat. Songs like “All Coming Back”, “Long Time” and “Sweet November” are examples of fine songwriting and musical execution. Her rendition of the Cold Chisel classic “Flame Trees” is a wonderful gentle arrangement. Her knack for stripping certain songs is nothing to sneeze at. It takes class and lots of talent. The crowd fell into silence and captured every note Sarah conveyed. Of course, “Don’t U Eva” has become a signature tune for her and it was again delivered beautifully. It wrapped up another terrific live performance by one of Australia’s best female voices.