HARPER
Review
On a very pleasant Womadelaide Saturday afternoon Harper gave
us a set of 10 or so numbers. He alternated between Didgeridoo
and
harmonica.
Included were a couple of dedications, "Ordinary Guy" to
our PM and "Does anyone Really Care" to the stolen generation. The
crowd was in relaxed mode at first but by the time Harper hit us
with "Glass on the stepping stone" many of "The Earth Bretheren"
were
on their
feet and dancing at the front of the stage. His backing group was
excellent. Jacob Cook on drums, Chris Mawer on bass and a great lead
guitarist whose name I missed.
Bob the Punter for SA Roots and Blues
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HARPER gets "Down
To The Rhythm"
SA Roots and Blues chats with
Harper on the verge of his Womadelaide appearance.
SARB.
Last time Adelaidians caught Harper was at The Gov ...when you stole
the show from The Proclaimers! This time round we'll have the opportunity
to catch you at Womadelaide. 2 performances, one on Saturday ( Stage
3 @ 5.00pm) the other Sunday ( Stage 5 @ 6.45pm) ...what can audiences
expect from Harper in Womadelaide mode?
H. I have written alot more material this time round & I
now play the didgeridoo. The inclusion of the didge has given my music
a truly Australian
take on the roots music genre. Combined with the harp, it creates a very unique
sound.
SARB. Seems that if there is a big festival and a large crowd ...you'll find
Harper! I've often wondered how performers find the big out door gigs? You
certainly rise to the challenge!
H. There is something very special about a big festival crowd. Their
positive energy makes you want to be the very best you can be. It is much easier
to perform to thousands than to a small crowd. Also a festival crowd are there
because they love music & they want to be entertained.
SARB. Exciting news about the deal with Blind Pig Records. Care to give us
some background on it?
H. My Manager Bobbi Llewellyn had been talking to the guys from Blind
Pig Records for a few years. If I had been an American artist I think I would
have been signed some time ago. The big problem was to get the A & R people
to a show. Thankfully Bobbi got the Edward Chemelewski to our show at the Boom
Boom Room in San Francisco in September. Edward really dug the show & asked
for my latest demo. Thankfully I had recorded a 7 song demo in my own studio
back in Melbourne before we started the tour. A few weeks later I was offered
a deal. It was really quick.
SARB. A new CD in the pipeline ...due for release in May?
H. Yes Ive recorded a new CD called "Down To The Rhythm" & it
is due to be released in the US on May 24. Im not sure when it will come out
in Australia. But those interested can check out www.blindpigrecords.com or
the Australian distributor www.onlybluesmusic.com
SARB. "Way down deep inside" had a personal intensity about it ...and
lyrically it had some potent social comments. Material for the new CD? ...care
to throw a bit of light on it?
H. I always write about what is happening in our world. The war in
Iraq, is a huge issue. Losing someone you love in war, political lies and so
on. But I never preach, I write stories. I also wrote a song about the beauty
of Australia. There are many topics covered. Its meant to be a journey.
SARB. Adelaide has some notorious harp players out there ...should they be
seeking out "Bushman Harmonicas"?
H. The Bushmans are very sturdy instruments, they can handle hard and
fast playing. Perfect for the touring muso who needs a harp that will last.
They also have a great tone. Ive played all the major brands, & the bushmans
suit me the best. Check them out www.bushmanmusic.com
SARB. 7. Look forward to catching your gigs at Womadelaide ...does your move
to The States mean that we will have less opportunities of seeing you?
H. I will still come back for short tours. I will come back for the
big festivals and a few club dates cause I just can't stay away from this wonderful
country of ours!!!
Harper's upcoming appearances: www.harper.biz
Harper downloads: http://www.disclogic.com
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