Dala & Hayden … Awesome Show!
Posted on May 11, 2008 - Filed Under News, Review, & Feedback
Last night was another fantastic event at Knox Acoustic Cafe. Both Dala and Hayden Stewart were superb, and I don’t think anyone left the building disappointed.
With higher than usual demand for tickets, we moved the show up from our familiar basement coffee house setting to the stunning sanctuary of Knox United Church (a big thanks to everyone at Knox United for making it such a welcoming environment.) With the brilliant natural acoustics of the room, and the excellent “sound works” of Gary Byers, it was an evening to remember.
Hayden Stewart (winner of the 2008 Knox Acoustic Cafe Youth Showcase) got the evening off to a great start with an inspired opening set. We took great pride in welcoming this wonderful musician to the stage and were thrilled to see him get a standing ovation at the end of his set. Congratulations Hayden … and thanks ! Here’s what Aaron Stewart wrote in his KeepsMeAlive concert review:
“The opening act was Hayden Stewart, winner of the recent Knox Acoustic Cafe Youth Showcase. Hayden’s set was very short, with only around 5 songs, but he made the most of his time with well-played, intelligent tunes. He spanned the range from global warming to the Wizard Of Oz with aplomb, and even went to the piano for a John Cale-inspired cover of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah. Hayden, for such a young man, is a very talented player and a proficient songwriter who will definitely go far in the coming years. Remember his name, folks, and go see him play when you can!”
Check out the Knox Acoustic Cafe Concert Photo album for pictures from Hayden’s performance.
After a short restaging break, Dala took to the stage and captivated the audience for the balance of the night. What a great combination of charm, charisma, style, and talent …what amazing harmonies … WOW! The night seemed to pass so quickly and we wished it could have continued on and on. The Dala Girls (Sheila Carabine and Amanda Walther) played two highly entertaining sets that covered some fantastic original material as well as a few magnificent covers. As was the case at last year’s Summerfolk festival, the rendition of Neil Young’s “Ohio” was one of the highlights. I find myself once again quoting a review from Aaron Stewart of KeepsMeAlive … Aaron wrote:
“… Dala is a well-balanced duo in every way. Sheila’s voice is the solid, cool and clear base over which Amanda’s higher, deceptively more fragile (but equally powerful) voice can soar. Taken separately, each is a stellar vocalist, but together they are unstoppable. And their harmonies? Oh my goodness. It’s like attending a Master’s class on the subject, presented with the ease born of much practice and unquestionable natural talent. These are two truly gifted young ladies…”
“… Dala’s original music is beautifully crafted and full of life, reflecting the duo’s stage presence perfectly - it is warm, intelligent, fun and, most importantly, genuine…”
“… Over their two sets, they both played guitar and piano with unwavering, engaging brilliance…”
You can read the full review at www.keepsmealive.com.
Check it out … we’ve added lots of great Dala photos to our concert photo album.
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See you all on June 14 for Eve Goldberg.
