One Movement Festival -BlueKing Brown

Sat 24th Oct, 2009 in Gig Reviews

Blue King Brown... what a fantastic act! Complete with backup singers, a host of assorted, talented musicians and full percussion section with every kind of drum, cow bell and gourd you could ever want. The show was extended due to the unfortunate exclusion of Frankmusik, and not one seemed to be complaining.

The music was meaningful, positive and actually served a purpose other than self-indulgence. It was a celebration of our right to stand up for injustice. Natalie Pa’apa’a was vibrant, in head-scarf and green face-paint slashed across her eyes and such a tremendous voice for such a small person.

Towards the end of the show, Pa’apa’a gave a moving address that encompassed the very soul of the Festival, reminding us that music is global; transcending beliefs and cultures, languages and politics. She told us that Saturday was the International Stand Up Day, where people from across the world were standing up in solidarity to support the eradication of poverty, equality for women and basic education for the whole world. We had all apparently been registered as part of this cause, our numbers adding to thousands of others in support. It was a surprise to most, and it really made the already great concept of the weekend a little more meaningful.