As a rule of thumb, I measure the quality of a show by the extent that it moves me to emotion. By that measure, the opening night of Joni & the Joans at La Popote was a triumph. Others seem to agree because the show will be back at La Popote on the 20th of May (to book contact Anru on 063 296 7593 or Andrew on 066 254 8112),
True – Erin Fourie, Grace Botha and Kath McClelland are all dear friends of mine, but the music either makes you feel – or it doesn’t. This musical tapestry of the works (and covers) of Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, Joan Osborn, Joan Jett and Joan Armatrading was woven together with the obvious affection these three talented women have for each other.
Botha’s infectious smile and huge musicality (both vocal and instrumental), McClelland’s passionate, smoky vocal and ready sense of humour and Fourie’s effortless, powerful and pitch-perfect singing and subtle wit are beautifully harmonised in a natural and evocative performance. Baez’s “Forever Young” and Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now”, in particular, made my cheeks wet, while Jett’s “I love Rock ‘n Roll” and Osborne’s “One of Us” brought out the careless rocker and the poignant existentialist in me, respectively. While aware of it, I am less familiar with Joan Armatrading’s work and the show has certainly sparked my inclination to listen to more of her.
As usual, La Popote’s cozy, rustic charm provided a perfect setting far removed from the sterility of some venues, and Andrew Giles’ roast chicken pot pies and ginger malva pudding provided hearty accompaniment to an evening that is firmly ensconced among my meaningful musical memories.