Sydney Reviews

Dannielle De Andrea has a voice that sings in colour. Bright gold flecks dance from her throat as she scats melodies and rhythms. As she sings songs about her mother such as, Be Careful What you Wish For and songs that would make her mother dance, deep mauveines and rich indigos trickle around the edges. They allow your shoulders to play in the tuscan yellows and fuchsia pinks of her music without forgetting that sorrow and loss are just a different side to the same coin. De Andrea’s voice transcends sound weaving an intricate tapestry of connection. The ever-swirling colours of her songs draw you in, binding her personal story, the song’s narrative, and fragments of your own history into a kaleidoscopic experience. As a performer she is generous and genuine. She will check that her key is right, wave to people she knows in the crowds and constantly reminds you that although she may look and sound like a Goddess she is human and there to sing for you. 

De Andrea was not alone in making this performance such a wonder to watch. She was supported by the Starfish Club. Founded by bassist Jonathan Zwartz and drummer Hamish Stuart, the Club has a loving and loyal following and it is easy to see why. Joined by pianist Bill Risby and guitar prodigy Oliver Thorpe, these musicians clearly love what they do, and the smiles that dance across their faces as they play amplify the joy in their music.

Each musician was a master in their craft, contributing to a performance that was both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. Risby played two different pianos at the same time, Thorpe slayed the strings on his guitar and Stuart effortlessly kept the rhythm with his hands and drum sticks. For his solo Zwartz's fingers danced over the string bass like they were having their very own vibrant soirée. 

The magnificent setting of ACO on the Pier, walking out to the wharfs on the spectacular Sydney Harbour, the raw talent, the intimate ambiance – these elements could have easily left you feeling overwhelmed or lacking in ways you couldn't quite articulate. But instead, the exact opposite occurred. You were disarmed by the performers, who invited you into their world with warmth and ease. They handed out chocolate, De Andrea made a playful yet insightful remark about how it released similar endorphins to those produced by singing – further deepening the connection between artist and audience. The moment became one of shared joy, where the art of performance, the pleasure of music, and the simple delight of chocolate fused together.

As we were leaving the performance, we couldn't resist taking a peek at Moonshine Bar, which is open Tuesday to Sunday from 6pm. On stage were Dizzy Days, and they were the perfect icing on the cake. We went in just to have a quick look but ended up staying for their entire set. It’s definitely worth seeking out this spot for live music – it opens up your world to the kind of awesome energy these talented women channeled.