The crowd gathered as anticipation rose for one of the rising stars of the Australian music scene. Shortly after the clock struck ten, a mischievous Bertie Blackman strode onto stage to a rousing applause. Blackman was here on a visit to Canberra to promote her critically acclaimed 2nd album ‘Secrets and Lies’.
Bertie Blackman immediately immersed the audience in a sonic and aural exploration, with duelling synthesisers and explosive drumming.
Through the opening songs it was impossible not to be drawn into Blackman’s rich and emotive vocals, and her energetic and ferociously talented four piece band. Performing ‘Black Cats’ from her new album, the band endeavoured to create Bjork-esque synthesised musical textures that filled the room and ears of an intrigued Canberra Audience.
A highlight of the concert was the anthemic and unforgettable ‘Heart’ which included the syncopated clapping of the Transit Bar patrons.
In addition to Blackman’s unquestionable talent, she was ably backed by a band which infused her sound with a relentless energy and musical assurance. Manny Bourakis deserved a special mention behind the drum set for his commanding rhythmic intensity and passion, which did much to fuel the energy in the room.
Transit Bar continues to feature as a place where rising Australian artists can perform and be appreciated accordingly, and is one of the most under-rated live music venues in the Nation’s Capital.
Before Bertie Blackman performed her cathartic encore of ‘The Sky is Falling’ she exclaimed ‘you guys are the best… and I don’t say that often’. This succinct note of appreciation was a kind way of affirming an enthusiastic Canberra crowd, who are too often starved of music of this calibre. Through this performance it became clear that Bertie Blackman has the charisma, musicianship and potential to become one of the seminal figures of Australian music.
To continue her promotion for her new album, Blackman will return to the ANU Bar on the 8th August, and those who missed Blackman at the Transit Bar, would be fools to ignore her lively, skilful and infectious talents again.
