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Frock The Regal Tent, season closed It's really hard to define the actual sound of Melbourne's Frock, and of course, them being a jazz band, that's always a good thing. While all the traditional elements of free-form are provided (albeit eclectically and cross-culturally sourced) from the drums (Dave Holland), double bass (Simon Starr) and guitar and vocals (Adam Starr) there also seems to be a solidly structured central focus on Anthony Schulz's piano accordion to provide the directive feel and definite storylines for each piece. Further life and melodic 'zing' is added from Craig Beard on vibraphone. And that's what made listening to Frock play live so interesting; once they settled into a piece they allowed plenty of space for the audience to crawl in and identify with their music rather than just create it for frivolous crowded room entertainment. Each number had been given an almost symphonic treatment, yet always retained that unmistakable jazz constituent that fans of this genre hold dear. This was most evidenced on pieces such as The Circus Suite (played out in three distinct movements), the beautifully subtle and gently lilting Tell, and the climatically urgent, Russian Puppet. This band is frocking unbelievable!  |
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