:: Serena Ryder / Kaya - Northcote Social Club - December 2006

By: Adrian Trotman

If there was a theme for Serena Ryder’s return to the Northcote Social Club (NSC) tonight it was ‘Sing Sing’, from the quartet Kaya to the Canadian singer/songwriter’s solo set; a night of vocal acrobatics and passionate performance that entertained the many who filled the room.

Kaya, four amazing female singers with the on-stage charisma usually likened to hip-hop MC’s, performed a very moving set, with each member taking turns in leading the group through originals of differing styles and unique interpretations of classic covers such as Bob Marley’s “Buffalo Soldier” and The John Butler Trio’s “Zebra”. What makes Kaya so entertaining to watch is their familiarity with both their music and each other which combines for an almost cabaret style performance.

The crowded NSC band room could be attributed to Serena Ryder’s frequent visits to Australia, and the ever-growing word-of-mouth response that ensues. This time she is touring in support of her new album “If Your Memory Serves You Well”, a tribute to Canadian songwriters. From the new album The Band’s “This Wheel’s on Fire” and Leonard Cohen’s “Sisters of Mercy” were definite stand-outs. Crowd favourites “And Some Money Too” and “Sing Sing” (the latter accompanied by Kaya), as well as the fantastic “Millbrook Fair”, had not lost anything in their transition to solo performance from her tour here with her band and Hawksley Workman last year.

A sing-along cover of Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” and the beautiful “Weak in the Knees” provided a fitting end to the night with the crowd showing its appreciation for Serena’s love of Australia, and Serena sincerely enjoying every moment. Rolling Stone magazine was on the money when they wrote, “Serena Ryder is the finest singer you will ever hear. Astonishing!”