The soft hues of late afternoon in Nerene’s cosy nook, with the tropical garden enfolding us, lent a different slant to the usual night time ambiance and in gentle breeze and tempered silence, Shomon opened with her sparkle and shine, totally in control of that nourishing voice, and delivered an awesome set. Every time I am in her presence, I discover more meaning in her deep and sometimes fragile lyrics. Far beyond her years this jewel is! Fly with wings outstretched Shomon – we will miss you! UCT here she comes. Watch her space. Watch out World!

......we’ll dance our souls across the dew wet grass.....

The rain had fallen gently most of the day, and the leaves glistened in delight

Laurie Levine is currently on tour promoting her new (one month old) album "Living Room" and it was indeed a pleasure to share this gentle maiden’s musical material. Laurie (guitar and mandolin) has creamy, petals on a wind vocals, with striking musical composition, and accompanied by the sultry Lize Wiid on keyboard, accordion, tambourine and vocals, they make a gracefully unpretentious duo.  The accordion is such a cumbersome instrument, but in the hands of Lize she makes it appear effortless and delicate, fanning it out like a giant moth coaxing out a brassy melody enhanced with pure harmonies. 

Laurie's haunting lyrics and incredible voice control, quavers, Regina Spektor-like, into my favourite of the day - "Scrambling" ("what you gonna do when it’s coming straight at you"). Their side-swaying melodies and Lize’s kazoo timbral quality was great fun. 'Slowly moving forward' is a brilliant composition, with swift harmony, faultless tempo honed to perfection. Bravo!
 
They closed with the Vera Lynn sing-a-long classic "We'll  meet again" with superb vocals and vintage feel. Yes – we do hope to meet again - soon.

Check her out on her Facebook page or her MySpace page.

Blue Stockings, supported by Luna Lounge, offers a homely atmosphere, great coffee, freshly baked food, local brew and, on this particular day, the wind shaking the raindrops off the trees and tapping on the roof, with hadidas in vocal competition, enhanced Shawn-the-soundman’s acoustics.

For future gigs keep in the loop with Luna Lounge / Blue Stockings happenings check out their site.