0
0
Brand New Heavies
Arts Centre
It’s been thirty years since the release of Brand New Heavies ground breaking acid jazz album ‘ Brother Sister’ and tonight Melbourne audiences are in for a treat.
Opening for the band is Melbourne local Jaron Jay, dressed in a military jacket and tights, his performance is electric. He’s all charisma and smooth moves as he gets the crowd warmed up for the main act. He’s fun, entertaining and engaging.
Next up the Brand New Heavies brought their signature blend of acid jazz, funk, and soul to the Arts Centre Melbourne, delivering a night of infectious grooves and feel-good energy that had the entire audience on their feet.
While the event was seated, straight away everyone was up and on their feet, the Arts Centre buzzing, a virtual night club with smiling faces rushing to the stage. Everyone cramming in as close to the stage as humanly possible to wave arms in the air, the joy infectious.
From the moment the band hit the stage, their tight musicianship and effortless chemistry were on full display. The rhythm section laid down deep, funky basslines, complemented by crisp brass arrangements and smooth guitar licks. Dressed in silver sequin jackets everyone in the back section looked sharp and stylish.
Longtime fans were treated to classic hits like Never Stop, Dream Come True, and Midnight at the Oasis, each performed with an energy that made them feel as fresh as ever.
Vocalist Angela Ricci commanded the stage with a powerhouse presence, effortlessly channeling the bands signature soulful sound. Her dynamic range and charismatic delivery had the crowd singing along, particularly during You Are the Universe, which became a euphoric audience-wide singalong.
The Heavies are masters of creating a party atmosphere, and this show was no exception. The band’s ability to seamlessly transition between jazz, funk, and soul grooves kept the energy high throughout. The rhythm section, led by Andrew Levy’s deep, rolling bass, provided an irresistible foundation that had everyone moving.
The Arts Centres acoustics allowed for every instrument to shine, from the punchy horn section to the crisp drum fills. The lighting design was subtle yet effective, accentuating the music without overshadowing it. Everyone in the crowd was having such a good time, the band entertaining them with every beat.
As the final encore wrapped up with a high-energy rendition of Dream Come True, the audience was left buzzing, reluctant to leave. The Brand New Heavies proved once again why they remain legends of the acid jazz scenes effortlessly cool, endlessly funky, and utterly timeless.
For longtime fans and newcomers alike, this was a night of pure musical joy and fantastic to see so much energy in the room, people immersed in bliss.
