Atira
Perth, Western Australia, Australia | SELF
Music
Press
The Fly By Night Club in Fremantle is a deceptive place. Entering through a small nondescript doorway, you are transported to a cavernous world of Japanese parasols and hanging red lanterns, candlelit tables and polite conversations, the kinda place for cocktail dresses and your best stepping out shoes... and as such I probably stood out like the proverbial dogs whatsits, in my Acca Dacca t shirt and double plugger thongs.
It was however, the perfect place to launch the debut album from Atira.
To get the crowd warmed up, Perth local Howie Morgan came out and did a set that put James Taylor to shame. A totally amazing voice, mellow and perfectly pitched. Delivering sounds that took you away to a lazy summer's afternoon overlooking the ocean. Unfortunately though, he wasn't on for long enough, hopefully he gets more time to showcase his talent next time. With a wonderful voice, and well written songs, I hope to hear more in the future.
After a bit of a break, Atira took to the stage and blew the crowd away. Lead singer, Melissa Erpen appeared like the pied piper and with every note she sang, drew the audience further and further under her captivating spell.
Its hard to define Atira, there's touches of funk, soul, RnB and pop in all their songs, yet when its mixed together, its something that whilst sounding strangely familiar is distinct and wonderfully unique and rather than just finding a comfortable groove, Atira mixed things up from song to song, presenting a set-list that found something for everyone. From the upbeat "Flow" through to the seductively soulful "Let it Go" this is a band that can do it all and do it all well.
In an age where image can make or break a career, Atira showed on Thursday night, that they have what it takes to mix it with the best of them. The beauty and talent of Melissa Erpen, the musical ability of Chris Targett and his band and the professionalism of everyone involved, all point to these guys being around for a long time to come.
I was slightly skeptical when I walked through the door that night, but I left a true fan. Atira sound great on my stereo, but live they are just something else all together. Keep an eye out for both the album and their show.... hopefully coming soon to a stage near you. - www.theaureveiw.com
Discography
2010 - Butterfly Rocket
Photos
Bio
Atira (Aka Melissa Erpen and partner in crime, Chris Targett) spearheaded this project in September 2009.
Their music quickly evolved into a refreshing and sophisticated new sound that blended the elements of pop, soul and RnB. Using these influences, Atira went on to create their own flavour which would incorporate strong melody lines and catchy hooks with a soulful feel.
From early demos, the material produced was already proving to show great signs for the pair and Atira were determined to take it to the next level. This was to be the start of a great journey which saw them working with a range of diverse and talented individuals along the way. From a simple seed that was planted, Atira’s sound was born.
With the album completed and band in tow, Atira have hit the stage showcasing their dynamic live performance, capturing audiences and building their following.
“performing this album is a feeling like no other”
With the sound, style and Image, Atira is the full package. They are now ready and destined to bring their marketable and captivating music to the world stage.
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