Joe Black Trio
Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia | SELF
Music
Press
" Solos by each of the three demonstrate their individual dexterity, depth and diversity, but it is their combined efforts that are truly spectacular. Energetic, hypnotic, rhythmic and atmospheric, I predict big things for the Joe Black Trio." - colosoul
Walking into the courtyard of the Fremantle Arts Centre you were instantly struck with a sense of intimacy tailor-made for the evening that was about to unfold. Surrounded by the old charm character of the venue and the punters seated at the tables and chairs provided or just relaxing on the grass with a blanket, many enjoying a bottle of red or white with a light dinner.
Joe Black Trio commenced the night. An amazing little ensemble comprising of bass, violin and percussion - featuring a cajon (Spanish flamenco drum).
First up was a neat little ditty called Caminos Crusados followed by Libertango, Mbayi Mbayi, Besame ('Kiss Me') and The Monkey, all of which were instrumentals. The next offering upped the ante with the three girls springing something interestingly different with their version of the Jungle Book, oh BTW.... did mention "WOW" what a voice!!! What seemed to be a shy girl with an outback spirit, surprised us all the moment she opened her mouth. It was clear, well in tune and with some strange, mesmerising accent in her vocal stylings. - Danny Mayers
Discography
(2011) Self-titled EP release
(july 2012) Graveyard Salsa EP
Photos
Bio
Musically dexterous indie rockers Joe Black Trio wander a diverse, stripped-down landscape of scratchy Bal- kan melodies, dusty old swing tunes and gritty, honest playing.
Casting off their classical roots back in 2010, Joe Black Trio have since revelled in the dim lit, dirty bars of the Perth rock scene, regularly playing to an ever-growing group of fans. Their achievements so far have been fierce - selling out 500 copies of their debut EP, featuring at Nannup Music Festival and Fairbridge Folk Festi- val, touring regional WA and Victoria, and selling out their EP launch at The Bird. Yet, bigger things are yet to come with highly anticipated EP ‘Graveyard Salsa’ out in July, with the band hitting the road for a national tour to support the release.
The trio’s sound is based on a very unique line-up of instruments - drums, electric double bass and electric violin - complementing drummer Holly Norman’s light, playful voice. The distinct lack of guitars is actually very refreshing, and violinist Watson’s ferocious, relentless playing moves between fast-paced improv to clever accompaniment to Norman’s vocals. In fact, the whole band moves smoothly from hard and fast playing to soft, mellow pit- ter-pattering whenever neces- sary. If there’s one thing these girls have in common, it’s that they can play the hell out of their instruments, and they use this in the best way possible - to do whatever it takes to make the songs great.
“Hard hitting tunes ... get ready for a good night!” - DRUM
“Mixing shredding violin and sultry vocals with deep dark bass and explosive percussion, they all appear com- fortable under the scarlet spotlights and discuss their compositions with ease and humour, the crowded bar spellbound. Solos by each of the three demonstrate their individual dexterity, depth and diversity, but it is their combined efforts that are truly spectacular. Energetic, hypnotic, rhythmic and atmospheric, I predict big things for the Joe Black Trio.” - Colosoul Magazine
“Really looking forward to “Graveyard Salsa” being launched. Keep your ear out for these guys!” - RTR FM
“ Music fans looking for something a little bit different in 2012 should keep an eye out for the Joe Black Trio’s high-energy, original songs” - Surf Coast Times
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