Words + Photos by Tom Dellinger
It’s always fun to see artists from other countries embrace musical genres closely identified with US artists. Case in point: Australia’s Clairy Browne and the Bangin’ Rackettes, who appeared at Bimbo’s 365 Club in San Francisco last Thursday night.
Their style is heavily rooted in the sound of doo-wop, soul, R&B, and Motown. In addition to their excellent musical execution, they also have an engaging stage presence. With the band set in the background, Clairy and the Rackettes take it front and center. Dressed in flowing gossamer tops that both flow through the air and play with the light, the Rackettes looked every bit as good as they sounded. They’re an integral part of the band’s songs, moving through their choreography while dancing and providing harmonies to fill out the sound.
Clairy herself takes center stage dressed in a very seductive outfit, with a cape that flows easily on the air and interacts with the surrounding lighting. While she cuts a riveting figure on the stage, it’s ultimately her performance of the songs which make the night what it is. On that count, the band also delivers. Their album Baby Caught the Bus covers a range of emotions and serves as the well from which this show was drawn.
The band delivers dense sound with pleasing baritone sax work and an articulate, driving rhythm section that the Rackettes and Clairy easily sail over for a rich, nuanced mix. From the haunting “You Don’t Owe Me Nothing” to the smooth, uptempo “I’ll Be Fine” and gritty “Love Letter,” Clairy’s vocals were technically spot on—but more importantly, she easily connected with the audience on an emotional level. Whether singing with attitude or taking it down to a soft, sultry voice, Clairy had everyone tightly wrapped in her spell. It’s a testament to her skills as a vocalist and the well-crafted songs the band works with.
Together for about five years, this band is on a roll. In the midst of their fourth US tour, they continue to add to their fan base as word of their infectious performances spread. This year’s tour has seen them play cities from New York to California—closing things out at The Casbah in San Diego, the eclectic and storied Pappy and Harriet’s in Pioneertown, and wrapping it up at the legendary Troubadour in Los Angeles. If the past can illuminate the future, perhaps we’ll enjoy another US tour next year.
www.clairybrowne.com
www.clairybrowne.com
TheWaster.com | California
9.25.14
A W E S O M E N E S S !!!!
Hell YES indeed. Legends in the making!
Prime divas! Was there at Bimbo's for the show. Great band and lots of fun!
I was stunned somethang fierce @ pappy's! Amazed by the talent, in awe of the sound. The lovely ladies dance put me in a trance & Clairy's sultry soul captured me as a life long fan!
I was stunned somethang fierce @ pappy's! Amazed by the talent, in awe of the sound. The lovely ladies dance put me in a trance & Clairy's sultry soul captured me as a life long fan!