Tex Perkins and The Dark Horses: Brooding Soundscapes in The Dunstan Playhouse – Adelaide Cabaret Festival Review

Dunstan Playhouse, Wed 10 Jun Moody, broody, atmospheric soundscapes travelling from the edge of classy country to the sophisticated side of rock, there is no genre for Tex Perkins and The Dark Horses. It’s just Tex Perkins-ish. Like a mellow wine in a warm bath with a close friend, this music is sensual, satisfying and sexy. Tex and the band, long time cohorts Charlie Owen, Joel Silbersher and Murray Paterson with Stephen Hadley and drummer Gus Agars are highly skilled and very accessible as they share their unique style of music with us. Like old friends at a party (without all the drinking and vomiting), we are guests at their gig and made to feel welcome and appreciated. They like Adelaide and Adelaide likes them. Tex sings as well as he ever has, with his inimitable style and evocative lyrics and harmonies from Joel and Gus add richness to the vocals. All the musicians (except the drummer, who weaves it all together with tastefully understated and clever rhythms) wander through their array of instruments with obvious delight. Whether swapping guitars and bass, adding an atmospheric effect at the keyboard, playing gorgeously haunting slide guitar, tastefully bowed double bass, or sparse harmonica, there is no jostling for room or elbowing to the front with flashy lead breaks or frenetic solos. Instead, we are privileged to be in the captivating presence of a true ensemble where each member contributes, in their turn, to the mesmerizing and delicious sounds, with a spaciousness that is rare and masterful. The magic of the spaces between the notes is this band’s specialty. This was a memorable night of very original and innovative music, Tex calls it ‘ear movies’, played by musicians who are confident enough in their own skills to be able to enjoy themselves and each other. An absolute treat! Nikki Fort Tex Perkins and The Dark Horses continue at Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide Festival Centre, from 9pm until Thu 11 Jun. Book at BASS on 131 246 and bass.net.au. Click HERE to purchase your tickets.