Bennett, Bowtell and Urquhart: Converting Normal Life Experiences Into Engaging Songs – Adelaide Fringe 2019 Review

[MUSIC/ACOUSTIC ~ NSW] Church Of The Trinity, Fri 22 Feb. All hailing from country music backgrounds, Bennett Bowtell, and Urquhart, or BBU as they refer to themselves, play a lot more than just country music. There are a few of what you might call classic country tunes, but their repertoire spills over into pop/country, blues, and that brand of acoustic music which is hard to place, and sits somewhere between folk and rock. But all of it serves up delightful melodies. Instruments include guitars, banjo, ukulele, and a short necked bass. Most of the songs are their own originals, and feature strong harmonies. They are individually all fine singers, and their voices blend beautifully, particularly on the quieter numbers. Lyn Bowtell has that unmistakable pure country twang that just seems made to sugar coat any decent melody with an extra layer of warmth – a really beautiful voice. Felicity Urquart is a bouncy on stage presence but was also quite at ease letting go of some emotional heartache. Kevin Bennett provides a deep rich balance to the two female voices, and plays some impressive lead breaks on acoustic guitar. His song about discovering his Aboriginal heritage, I Was Born White But I’ll Die Black, was quite moving. Indeed, this whole show was quite moving. These three people clearly really enjoy playing with each other, are totally unpretentious, and sings songs that inspire and just make you feel good about life. Their material is quite personal – they all have the knack of converting normal life experiences into engaging songs. The music is catchy and infectious, as is their onstage presence. In the end they simply win you over with irrepressible joy and love for their fine songs and the art of performing. 4 stars Michael Coghlan #ADLfringe