Imogen Heap dazzled her audience at Paul Cluver Wine Estate on Saturday evening as she bounced about spreading her magic in a spectrum of coloured lights. The amphitheatre surrounded by the Eucalyptus forest in the beautiful Elgin Valley complemented the engaging, moody performance.
The concert was opened by British band D7, who performed a set with nothing but the harmony of their voices – no instruments, just a few strapping young gentlemen with impeccably crisp voices. Totally worth seeing.
Imogen Heap, a seasoned musician comfortable with her style, manipulates electronic beats with a twist of ambient sound – like the sound of a frying pan cooking food in the background of the song ‘Hide and Seek’.
She seems to have creativity in her blood. An art therapist mum and construction rock retailer dad have apparently influenced her passionate music. She looped live beats and chimes, using an array of instruments as she carried the crowd while sipping a cup of tea like the stage was her playground. It was pretty impressive considering most contemporary musicians’ tactful lip-synching.
It’s amazing watching music being made so naturally. Banging away at her trademark transparent piano, Imogen animatedly interacted with her audience throughout the performance – there was non-stop banter. Being quite the charitable character, the beautifully lit tree that hung over her piano was sold bit by bit for as much as anyone was willing to pay for a branch (or so), with the proceeds going towards the Help to read initiative. This added an interesting dimension when some guy contributed R1000 so his lady (a lovely little redhead) could share the stage with Imogen. She then grouped the forest of fans and harmonized the lot of us as we sang along – not bad actually. She declared it her most varied performance.
It was an inspiring show of talent, highlighting – poignantly – how much fun it must be to be a rock star.
