Casual Projects, The Andi &George Band @ ANU (18/04/08)

Sat 26th Apr, 2008 in Gig Reviews

There was much anticipation within Canberra’s music scene for Friday’s show. It combining two great Canberra acts; Casual Projects and the Andi & George Band. Casual Projects launched their new single Move Along, from their CD No Rest and the Andi & George Band played as part of their intense build-up to next month’s CD launch and their impending tour. The Venue was full by 8:30pm the crowd ready for the eclectic fusion of music, energy and fun that characterises an Andi & George Band set. The large crowd was also well hyped by the weeks of build-up and buzz amongst those planning to see headliners Casual Projects.

The Casual Projects set packed the crowd into the ANU bar as they powered their way through uniquely Australian Hip Hop. The band features an extensive line-up of vocals which give their music some great harmonies and a strength that makes them stand out. Pat Lillicrap and Muchtar Johnson focused on vocals while
The rest of the group mixed it up on Guitar, Keyboards/Vocals, Saxophone, Synths and drums.

The band opened up with a friendly hip hop sound and rhythm that eased the crowd in before firing everyone up with Move Along, the single that this evening was launching. With stage presence and confidence Casual Projects took the crowd through a consistent set that engaged as they worked their fans to sing along and maintain the momentum that the Andi & George Band had built earlier in the night. Ending strongly Casual Projects left the audience satisfied.

The extensive line-up of the Andi & George Band captures the stage of any venue, and the ANU Bar was no different, with the band’s high energy drawing the crowd in, the members of the band obviously having as much fun as the crowd. Featuring a line-up of powerful and diverse vocals including multi-instrumentalists Andrea Kirwin and George Bishop and singers Alice Cottee and Tabitha Omaji, every song played by the band engaged the audience as they weaved through rhythms that everyone could dance to. The audience took up the offer to dance enthusiastically and the crowd moved energetically throughout the set.

The Canberra crowd continually appreciate the Andi & George band’s ability to take such diverse musical influences and synthesise a unique sound that makes the most of each band member. Casual Projects was well set up by this Canberra band in the midst of recording their new CD and preparations to go on the road.