Two CD launches are much better than one I reckon.

On Sunday, January 22nd both bands that I am involved with ("Soul Trader" and "The Liars Bench") had a successful double CD launch at JIVE, a well known live venue in the heart of Adelaide.

Two days later a live review of the event had been posted on www.adelaidebands.com and I want to thank the author, Adrienne Sheerin for her permission in allowing me to post the review on this site.

Thanks :)

What’s better than a CD launch of top-notch original music? Why, a double CD launch of top-notch original music, of course! And that’s exactly what we got Sunday 22/1/06 at Jive. Hats off to Soul Trader and The Liars Bench. These two popular bands put on a show that was pure enjoyment!

But even before the first act, there was a wonderful solo singer/songwriter, Courtney Robb, who was the support. She played a sweet set of original songs, just herself and her guitar and the first thing that struck me, was her down to earth stage presence.

She sang her songs of life and love with sincerity and honesty. Lovely voice, nice guitar, Courtney Robb is a natural.

After a short break Corey Stewart and Simon James Betts, aka Soul Trader, took to the stage. “Gentlemen, start your engines……”

This talented duo then played an engaging set of original pop-rock songs that had the whole crowd smiling. From up tempo grooves to touching ballads, Soul Trader did their thing with style. They are a great duo, showing not only complete musical compatibility, but also a flair for audience-connecting.

But of course Soul Trader are more than a duo, and after about 8 songs, out came Darren Zaza (electric guitar), and Tim Irrgang (drums), to join Simon and Corey on stage. Corey swapped his guitar for a bass and Soul Trader was now a rocking four piece!

What followed was a full preview of their new CD ‘Pre-Cursor’. They played through four of the main tracks, clearly enjoying themselves, but then, when you play cool, spirit-lifting songs with lyrics of compassion, how could you not enjoy yourself!

So then it was the turn of The Liars Bench to grace the stage. By now the cheerful crowd had made themselves completely at home. They settled down to enjoy an epic set from The Liars Bench that consisted of no less than 17 songs!

This band has really got something and as they played, I realized that these are people who love and care about their music as well as each other. They also have a wealth of talent between them. The primary songwriter and inspiration for the band is lead singer Mark Parker, but there are also contributions from Darren and Corey in the songwriting department.

Their new CD is called 'Curl' and is an album you could describe as soulful folk-rock. However, The Liars Bench are not an easy band to categorise, especially when their set includes: lively, melodic pop songs (‘Hand It To You’), extended instrumental numbers, with stand-out bass and guitar solos (Corey and Darren), a fantastic dance number (‘Hold It Together’), and a beautiful solo piece (‘It’s Alright’) by Mark.

When you add the vocal talents of Jennifer Shephard, the excellent keyboard skills of Nicole Elsdon, and the flawless drumming of Tim Irrgang you have one terrific group.

But wait there’s more!

Finishing off their set, were 3 songs with Corey Stewart on lead vocals and I don’t think we will ever forget that wild top note he hit in song 2. It almost blew the roof off!! The show finally came to an end with enthusiastic applause and calls for more.

So back they came for encores, one being the classic, “Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac!

“All I want is to see you smile……….” And smile we did for a night of music and song from two great Adelaide bands.

Both CDs are available now at their respective websites and gigs.

http://www.soultradermusic.com
http://www.theliarsbench.com

By Adrienne Sheerin
www.adelaidebands.com