It is that time of year when the holidays are a distant memory, time is flying by and there feels like no end to the working weeks. Last Friday night, Party Gravy made time stand still with a night of complete fun, energy and uplifting music.
The Abbey at Gold Creek provided a beautiful candlelit, intimate setting; the staff warm, the food enticing and the beer and wine cold. From the moment I stepped inside, there was no doubt that this was an escape from the weight of a dreary week. Little did I know, the length of escape I was about to embark on as we were taken through the sights and sounds of New Orleans, the early 20th century and swing delights.
The heel tapping and smiles started early as Sexytet did a great job in warming the crowd. They were met with enthusiasm from an audience eager to explore the sound of this young brass band as they found their confidence, stage presence and voice.
Before long, it was time for what the crowd had been waiting for. Party Gravy graced the stage and delivered upbeat, purity and bliss from their brass instruments. I have never been to New Orleans and am a few decades shy of the brass band era, but their unique sound and overall enthusiasm on stage stole the hearts and minds of the audience and delivered us to a place of happiness were swing dancing ruled the roost. Party Gravy’s amazing mix of New Orleans style classics, covers of contemporary songs and even a sneaky Disney cover as-well filled The Abbey with absolute energy.
The Canberra Swing Katz, a sensational swing dance couple, swung, jumped and kicked the crowd into dancing gear with their fantastic display of talent. The Abbey was reliving and celebrating an era of music instilled in the memories of history, sometimes, un-noticed or a little un-appreciated, but thanks to ‘Party Gravy’, never forgotten. Unfortunately, ‘Party Gravy’ reluctantly finished their set, and it is safe to say a purely enjoyable night was had by all and the stress and strains of a long week well forgotten as I clicked, swung and jived my way home.
Photography by Mark Turner
