Emma Donovan's national tour in support of her debut solo album, 'Til My Song Is Done' rolled into the intimate surrounds of Melbourne's Sooki Lounge on a Thursday evening.
Those gathered on the frosty winter's night (1 August) were warmed up by the soul stirring and heartfelt tunes of both Candice Lorrae (on support duties) and Emma Donovan and her tight-knit band.Donovan has been touring around Australia since the release of her album in April, taking in capital cities as well as many regional and remote communities. With a run of regional Victoria shows this weekend, it was Belgrave's turn.
Both Emma and Candice have recently stepped away from their respective bands, The Putbacks and The Merindas, to shine on their own as solo artists. There's a sense of bravery for both artists as they have both pursued a style of pouring out their hearts.
Love for those around them and connection to culture are themes central to both solo sets. Although commonalities can be found in the way they are going about their music, there is a definite sense of individuality.
Candice, who for the last decade, has been a part of the pop duo The Merindas. With just herself and her guitar on the stage and a unique storytelling style, Candice endears herself to those that got there early.
A few well selected covers including Fleetwood Mac's 'Landslide' is worlds away from the music of The Merindas, but you sense comfort for her in this new solo style of performing.
Emma's band make their way to the stage taking up their instruments then Emma joins them to cheers from the audience. She replies by saying thank you before she has even sung a note. There's an overwhelming sense of mutual gratitude throughout the evening for what is shared, especially from the audience.
The set opens with title track 'Til My Song Is Done'; it's heartfelt and passionate from the very get-go and that continues through every song for the remainder of the set. It is clear throughout that Emma takes her role as a storyteller and song woman with an immense sense of sincerity.
Easing us in with a few tender moments, 'Bringing All The Lovin'' is a reflection of the love that Emma has for those close to her and it is felt by the audience. 'Liquid Gold', which is introduced by a story of her Father's Country, is the first song of the night to get people up dancing. Most of the audience is seated with couches and chairs scattered around, creating a laid-back vibe but also a great setting to take in the messages and the stories Emma is sharing.
'Til My Song Is Done' is a record about family legacy and sharing songs from her family paying tribute to her grandparents Micko and Aileen, and playing two of his songs 'Miracle Man' and 'Promised Land' were very special moments and you could really sense how much it meant to Emma to be able to play those songs.
Likewise 'Yibaanga Gangaa (Sweet By & By)' sung in her Gumbaynggirr language was a profound moment. It was at this point Emma made the comment that these "songs are in my blood".
'Change Is Coming' and 'Blak Nation' are big moments on the record, and that feeling of awe is amplified when seeing them in the live setting, bringing things up a notch as the set is nearing its finish.
Emma shouts out each member of the band at different points, but makes sure to give special attention to Mick Meagher who has been playing with her since the Black Arm Band days and who she wrote the album with.
The complementing roles of the other members of the band creates a platform for which Emma's mighty vocals can really shine. It's a fairly standard band set up of drums, guitar, bass and the addition of pedal steel, a bit different from the set up of The Putbacks, but each member brings their talents to the fore at different points; even with sweet backing vocals at different times throughout.
A very special tribute to Aunty Ruby Hunter and Uncle Archie Roach in the form of a cover of 'Down City Streets' was particularly emotional. They both made an incredible contribution to Australian music, but were also formative in Emma's music.
The emotions kept rolling out as Emma made mention it was her Mother's birthday today and that she passed away seven years ago, dedicating closing song 'Sing You Over' to her. It is obvious through her songs and the stories she tells that family is everything to Emma Donovan.
There's a sense of sharing in her performance that so many can learn from. She truly is one of the best storytelling performers this country has. Not to mention the powerful and soulful vocals that were incredible to witness.
