The O R I G I N A L S II

by Shellie Sands

On Sunday, 24 May, POL Arida brought together again a collection of SL performers doing exclusively original tunes. The event took place at Rasta Fairy Beach and was hosted by the incredible Harrie Skellerup once again. Each performer played a 30-minute set over the course of 5 hours. This showcase differed from the first one in April, but it was equally as unique in talent.
Kicking off the show were The Born Again Pagans (Madame Anoufhaz and hexx Triskaidekaphobia). This was a surprisingly refreshing band whose music was mellow with a hint of reggae on a couple of songs. They definitely have a sound quite different than one might expect from a band who call themselves Pagans. The band recently released their first album on 9 April 2009. I look forward to catching them around the grid some time.
AMFORTE Clarity was up next performing her original tune "Nothing Concrete." AMFORTE impressed me as sounding a bit like Alannis Morrisset but softer and a little less cynical. Very sweet with a lovely personality, she uses her music as a vehicle for pouring out her self doubt and this is evident in every song. Typically AMFORTE does orginals and some covers. I recommend catching a show if you can.
Lexie Luan is an awesome performer who really plays to the crowd. Her powerful, melodic voice will really capture your attention. A native Philadephian, and personal friend of mine, Lexie has been performing most of her life. Lexie is a talent not to miss!
Following Lexie was Bara Jonson, an upbeat Swedish performer with a strong, resonant voice and fantastic guitar strumming (and some excellent whistling talent too). I've heard him before and really like him. Soon to be a papa and proud of it, Bara will not disappoint--check him out!
POL Arida himself was next and delivered with his usual intense style sprinkled with sadness. Performing some of his best originals, including "One" and "Home," his set closer was "The Last Song Ever." This was, unfortunately, true as POL is taking a wee break and will be greatly missed by the SL music community. Best wishes POL during your hiatus. We look forward eagerly to your return to the SL music scene!
Up next was the fabulous Zorch Boomhauer serenading us with his raspy and sexy voice. Zorch has a terrific stage presence and sings from the heart.
Rich DeSoto took command of the stage next. Rich has a pleasantly surprising sweet tenor voice. His music blends country with folk and his songs are light and upbeat. Ad libbing using the members of audience was a special touch during one of his songs. Some of you may have heard Rich before singing his very funny "Avatar Girl."
Juel Resistance was beautiful as always performing her customary mellow folk-like music. Stream issues (welcome to SL Sunday!) interrupted her set, but this was quickly rectified and we didn't miss much. Try to catch Juel, she is truly delightful.
AcousticEnergy Nitely followed Juel. His name says it all. Strong emotion is captured in every song. A very moving performer, he spoke some of the truest words I ever heard about SL, "some of us have long distance relationships that are difficult to manage, but one day we'll meet and share and feel our tears." This somewhat profound statement was followed by the song "I Can't Wait to See my Joy Upon Your Smile." I was very impressed as a first time listener and highly recommend him. I look forward to seeing Acoustic in the future.
Dann Numbers joined this second presentation of The O R I G I N A L S having appeared at the first one. Enthusiastically performing his bluesy tunes he once again put on an awesome show!
All of the featured performers can be heard regularly on IndieSpectrum Radio, owned and managed by Fox Reinsch (www.indiespectrum.com). Many thanks to POL, Harrie, and all the performers, and a special thanks to hexx Triskaidekaphobia and jsmn Yao of RastaFairy Beach for hosting this fabulous showcase.