Music
The best kept secret in music
Press
http://www.skinnysmusic.com.au/Reviews/freakylou.htm (cut and paste URL for online view)
Okay. So maybe white boys can't jump but apparently, some can get the crowd jumping. Recorded live at the Moon Bar, "Refugee" is the band's impressive debut cd. Multi-talented lead man, Luc Bernard, pens poignant lyrics, filled with a touching social conscience, that beautifully accompany Freaky Lou's home grown brand of much-more-than-Reggae.
Already gathering a respectable local following, the band comprises eight members, who play everything from keyboards and bass to trumpet and sax. Their sound is laidback, coolly casual and eminently pleasing. Included on this release is smooth and groovy "Love is the Answer" ("who goin' to tell the refugee war is good for democracy?") and a rather spiffy twist on Tenor Saw's brilliant "Ring the Alarm" ("if you're not producing solution, you're contributing to the problem pollution"). "Gimme Back My Wig" starts off like a slapstick horn fest, which evolves into hot acid jazz stylings a la D.I.G. Nice work.
If you haven't yet had the pleasure of catching Freaky Lou live, this album might just whet your appetite sufficiently to get you moving. Besides, if you're looking to shell out on some innovative local music, you could do worse than this nice little five track ep. Chill to the celebratory atmosphere of Freaky Lou and let Mr Bernard seduce you with his frankly important and informed political messages.
- Skinny Music / Bec Stafford
SATISFIED SOULS SING LOUD
FreakyLou is a local band. Darcy McNutty's classy sax soloing, Tom Hinchliffe's effective pulsing bass grooves and the memorable percussion made a strong impression as Luc Bernard sang tracks from their recent CD 'Refugee'.
In keeping with the reggae tradition, the songs had a political message served up with lashings of catchy tunes, esoteric riffs and a spirit of exuberant defiance.
The environmentally concerned 'The Gully' grabbed attention and the toasting rap style, jazzed up version of Marley's 'Who The Cap Fit jolted the audience into life...
(continues with The Wailers review) - Brisbane Courier Mail / Gillian Wells
FreakyLou's 'Refugee' is a live recording from the 'Say No To War' gig at The Moonbar, an EP with a cause made by musicians who care.
FreakyLou are revolutinary advocates for human life and these particular five songs delve into the plight of refugees. Ska - like horn sections accompany vocalist Luc Bernard's unique rap / reggae style, while the words explore political, social and environmental issues. Impact is reached via lyrical meaning more so than melody, atop simply honest, refreshing and groovy music.
Track one 'Love Is The Answer' could be the anthem for the new millenium, so fitting today in it's relevance and conviction.
FreakyLou should be in politics. It seems they get it; 'If you're not producing solution you're contributing to the problem pollution'.
FreakyLou - You guys are cool!
- Tsunami Magazine / Alana Hall
Feb 6th 2004 Bob Marley Birthday Celebrations / FreakyLou CD launch
With a seemingly perpetual stream of devotees snaking their way through the entrance, it's of little surprise to find The Zoo's interior buzzing with energy and enthusiasm...
(edit)
...It's time for FreakyLou to grab some of the attention now and the band seem genuinely thrilled to find their endeavours warmly recieved.
Musically, they're immediately on the money with their direct reggae stylings, showing off their individual wares and encouraging each other through simple smiles and nods.
The group's debut EP (and cornerstone for tonights proceedings) 'Refugee', recieves a solid look in, as the title track and 'Love Is The Answer' give the political and very human undercurrents of the night some tasteful lyrical reinforcement. Instrument swapping and a few brief solos complete the band's lively and altogether enjoyable set while demonstrating the band members' unflappable ability...
(edit)
In all, the night proves to be a well executed launch for a suitably worthy recording and, with the spirit of the man evident throughout, fits well as a culmination of sorts to the official Bob Marley week proceedings. - Time Off Magazine / Mark Irons
Discography
1 independent EP release to date
FREAKYLOU 'Refugee'
Track List
1) Love Is The Answer
2) Knowhere
3) Ring The Alarm
4) Gimme Back My Wig
5) Refugee
To recieve a copy ($15 AU), please send an email to earthmassive@yahoo.co.uk
To contact Producer (Tony @ Wildtone) please call 0412 800 261
Photos
Feeling a bit camera shy
Bio
Brisbassed seven piece jazz reggae band with an extensive repertoire of original dance music, and selected version.
FREAKYLOU combine these influences together to create deep, dynamic sound that is breaking new ground.
Politically and socially aware, FREAKYLOU have a strong message to their music. The songs are cleverly structured, lyrically relevant, and also very melodic and catchy.
Backed up with one of the heaviest rhythm sections in the land, and featuring soloists on sax, trumpet, trombone, lead guitar, keyboards and voice, the FREAKYLOU sound is irresistibly danceable.
FREAKYLOU have performed at numerous venues, events, functions and festivals including... Woodford Folk Festival, The Valley Fiesta, West End Street Festival, Woolumbin Festival, 4ZZZ Market Day, The Tivoli, The Zoo, The Moon Bar, The Indie Temple, The Great Northern and New Years Street Festivities in Byron Bay.
FREAKYLOU have played support to domestic headliners The Cat Empire. They have also supported three major international touring acts. These are Sheva, world music peace emissaries from Israel, The Mad Professor, UK based dub originator & also superstar reggae group The Wailers, backing band for the legendary Bob Marley.
The time is now!
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