French Gypsy Punk – Leo January 12, 2007

Garry D sent in this awesome review of Leo last night @ Becks Festival Bar.

Check out what you missed out on…

 Kicked off the weekend early last night at the Hyde Park Barracks to the sounds of a 9 pce troupe of groovy young French men called “Leo”. The intriguing ensemble is made up of drums, double bass, guitar (electric + acoustic), violin, trumpet, sax, keys, vocs and piano accordion! On this warm night with a cool breeze and cold becks beer with a picturesque city backdrop the mini orchestra proceeded to make brisk love to our earholes. The charismatic guitar player (think young punk Ted Danson with sideburns) leading the young froggies into battle wound up the crowd with signature rockstar strumming and passionate vocal work, from Jim Morrison inspired style on the song “whisky bar” to delving into punk, rock, even rap styles. The French vocals were sounding sexy though we had no idea of the lyrical content most of the time. I used to think the Piano Accordion was sappy Italian music to make pizza sauce to – I was wrong. Leo produce a fat, driven, full bodied wall of sound; swingin and beautifully intricate. Sometimes in the spirit of blues then suddenly possessed by a Dr Jeckyl/Mr Hyde rock/chill schizophrenia.

The young free spirits flow in harmony together to create quite a gusto. I almost burst my left eardrum busting a move with young and old music connoisseurs alike. Cutting edge VJ projected live band footage with layover effects and fast friendly service at the multiple bars. A great venue allowing the audience to stand inside or out with a view to the stage.

These lads bounded over the international communication barrier with their attitude, passion and the universal language of music. All competent and talented musicians they swapped instruments (inc vocs) at the drop of a hat and excelled every time. They entertained us through their set with the sounds of world music, bid us goodnight, then called themselves back for an encore which sounded like a mash up of Tool and a middle eastern cultural festival.

So do yourself a favour and head to a Sydney Festival gig – you never know what exotic flavours might tickle your tastebuds.

Thanks Garry