Music
by Hush Concert
St George’s College Dining Hall
Friday 6th February

Review by Fiona Hugo

Punters, this is your musical zenith. Local musicians Davey Craddock and Stacy Gougoulis act as hosts and curators of an evening with the unhindered pursuit and appreciation of music. For anyone who strains to hear lyrics while being disturbed by sloshing pints and loud nearby conversations; this is music as it is meant to be presented and received. Held in the beautiful St George’s College Dining Hall, a haven of mahogany, stained glass and lop sided lampshades, we knew we were in a sacred space. Sitting in pew like rows, I felt we were in a church where sound was the deity, worshipping at the altar of soulful music.

On the lineup tonight was a solo Timothy Nelson, stripped of his band, but with clear and orotund vocals and captivating expression. Following was Jordi Davieson and Josh Biondillo - half of San Cisco, playful and intimate, with Jordi’s sweet rich voice in fine balance with the grand piano. To my delight, Davey Craddock joined them to sing a beautiful Dave Rawlings country ballad. When they put their guitars down and belted out the final lines of flawless three part harmony, I was a happy woman. After an interval featuring wine and special snack boxes, we heard from the mighty and rich Felicity Groom with dissonant harmonies, cathartic chanting and the surprise addition of a banjo. Closing the evening was The Wilds – an amalgamation of local favourites with their truncated and poignant songs. It was a dreamy, strange and familiar all at once.

A few of these artists have recently delved into the electronic and synth style with a slightly heavier and more developed sound. To take something deliberately developed, and strip it back to it’s visceral elements is mighty special. We were enthralled as this beautiful music lay pure and exposed before us. There is an exchange that takes place, a mutual sharing. The audience provides full attention, and the artist give freely, yielding carnal delight for all. It is all facilitated by this premise: a space for the sanctity of music.

My highlight: in the middle of Timothy Nelson’s set, a hidden choir quietly erupted from within the audience, perfectly placed and balanced to envelop the audience in harmonies. I felt consumed by the swelling sound.