MUSICAL

Presented by The Spooky Men of the West

Teatro 1

Review by Annie Teh

What do you get when you mix Georgian music with power tools and facial hair? Why, Spooky Men of the West, of course. Making their first appearance at the Fringe World Festival Perth, their first Fringe on home territory, the WA-bred group and are ready to sing to you about the world of men. The men’s chorale (but not a men’s group, as they heartily sang) was conceived by director and “spookmeister” Stephen Taberner of Spooky Men’s Chorale fame, and are an obvious choice for anyone who appreciates acapella groups and musical comedy.

While their name is indeed ‘Spooky Men of the West’, don’t be fooled — the 15 men that took the stage appeared less spooky and more like a rendition of The Village People, except dressed completely in black with a great deal more beard action.

The group has an established repertoire under their wing, and were ready to show it off. Original songs like “Magnificent” and “Don’t Stand Between a Man and His Tool” expressed the plights of modern man, while the heartfelt rendition of Kasey Chambers “Pretty Enough”, accompanied by some real man-feelings, brought chuckles to connoisseurs of musical comedy. “Ba’hari Ghibb”, the highlight of the show, is probably the most cultured interpretation of the Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive” you will ever see.

Despite their long-running track record, the show’s performance suffered at times thanks to some weaknesses in musical technicalities. While they had a solid and strong bass, their timing for more complex pieces was less than watertight and the tenors wavered in pitch towards the end of the show. The monotony of their musical arrangements – thanks to the Georgian arrangements – is easily saved by a comedic punchline or story, but suffered with their sincere performance of “The Sweetest Kick”, which became dreary and tedious.

Nonetheless, the Spooky Men of the West have proved once again why they are beloved by their fans in Western Australia. Delivering unique and gut-splitting lyrics with a straight face and brilliant acting, the group are a great example of home-grown talent with an indisputable track record of making you laugh. Man-laugh while riding a horse and chasing a mastodon, that is – if we’re going to go all Spooky Men on you.

The Spooky Men of the West: Secrets of Mansinging runs until 21 February at Teatro 1, Pleasure Gardens, Northbridge. Tickets available here.