Joanna Newsom (4/5)
Sydney Festival, Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House, 25th January 2008

Enchanting music for harp, drums and mandolin. Part 1, the Ys album with its tormented lyrics and delightfully sparse orchestration, was well and gently accompanied by the SSO. Part 2, just the trio showed the potential of Newson’s voice to move away from the Kate Bush high spikes and resonate in harmony with her accompanist. Less is successfully more, each instrument clear, precise never overpowering. Excellent work on the sound desk. A relaxing Friday evening.