Bic Runga...

venue:   Concorde 2 review date:   Saturday, 19 June 2004 photos & words by:   Daniel Regan [ intro | page 1 ]

review

Born and raised in Christchurch, New Zealand, Bic Runga has become a well-known public figure in her home country after releasing her first album 'Drive'. She’s picked up a host of awards (including the New Zealand equivalent of a Grammy at the Tui awards) for Album of The Year, Record of the Year, Best Vocal Performance and Best Songwriter. Relatively new to the music scene on this side of the water, Bic has only just begun to infiltrate British music with her soft vocals and gentle harmonies.

Bic has only just begun
to infiltrate British music
with her soft vocals and
gentle harmonies.

Admittedly, I was new to Bic Runga's music prior to the performance, attending on the recommendation of a friend who had randomly (and happily) purchased her album on an impulse buy. Neither disappointed nor overly enthusiastic about the tracks from her album, I decided it would be best to see her live in order to weigh up my conflicting opinions.

Straight up, Bic has an incredibly soothing voice. She has a humble stage presence and as she thanks the audience she reminds me of how Björk often bows her head softly and coos "sank yoo" in appreciation. When Bic speaks in between performances her voice is quiet, almost whispering, and intensity fills the room with each track performed. Throughout the set she switches between guitar and piano, but still retains the comforting quiet tone that generates a gentle sway through the crowd. Comparing the live performance to Bic Runga’s studio albums, there is no competition. In recordings her voice can, at times, seem slightly too airy with little depth and an essence of light girl-pop. Sadly this creates a false preconception as on stage Bic Runga's voice is soft, soulful, and hums on waves over the audience.

as she thanks the audience
she reminds me of how Björk
often bows her head softly and
coos "sank yoo" in appreciation

Bic creates, impeccably, an atmosphere that electrifies the crowd, lulling them into a daydream, her modest warmth enveloping all those who listen. And with her horde of awards in tow behind her, I suspect that it won't be long before Bic Runga has a lot more than just her native Kiwis enthralled by her aural delights...

photos view all 6 photos

click to view all 6 photos

about Concorde 2

Okay, so you may have to walk a bit to reach it... but that just makes it that little bit more exclusive doesn't it! Located along Madeira Drive, the Concorde 2 is a sizeable venue with a huge variety of clubnights and bands on each month. Some top names, some great festivals, World Music... you name it. If you can't find something to pique your interest then you might as well pack your bags and head for Eastbourne... The next Concorde 2 date for your diary: Monday, 3rd November Alphabeat + Das Pop Click for more info and complete listings for Concorde 2