Saw Fred Smith at Tilleys last night, accompanied by Mikelangelo and the Black Sea Gentleman (doubling as Mr Smith's security contingent). Launch of his new cd - Independence Park. A fairly unique product that I wonder whether anywhere but Canberra could have produced. Currently living the life of a househusband in Washington DC (he said that over there househusbands are regarded with a level of respect ..... similar to that given to a eunuch in ancient China ... I wonder if he has run into Tim Dunlop), his work has been influenced by his time in peackeeping missions in Bouganville and Solomon Islands, some of his lyrics in pidgin, reminding me of my other favourites, Telek (I should blog something about the Telek gig I saw at the end of last year) and David Bridie (I was pleased to notice that David Bridie contributes piano on a couple of the tracks on the cd, also, check his site for mention of a possible Not Drowning, Waving tour in August, and you might want to read the end of his April diary entry re implications for West Papua of the recent consideration of a comprehensive partnership between Indonesia and Australia).

Back to Fred Smith - mainly a story teller, there are both distinctly Australian Folk and rock influences. I love the particular variety of accent he has, somehow a sort of older style Australian accent without being overly broad. Bought the new cd at the concert and have enjoyed it so far, especially Rolling Thunder (not exactly sure who that is about, but it was a great start to the gig with Fred singing from the bar), and the tribute to David Branson - Song So Uncertain.

Was also pleasing to see Mikelangelo of the Black Sea Gentleman, a gentleman I must admit to have not seen performing since his days as Miki boy in P Harness back in the early 90's. Quite well attired these days compared to his old costumes of sheepskin coats, macrame codpieces and not much else.

All up the performers melded together to produce a very atmospheric night. Not sure what the US will think of Fred Smith though.