A Case of You: Edo Santoni @ the Basement 23rd June 2012
Stepping out to a crowd with excitement and joy; appears Edoardo Santoni. Promising an energetic and soothing performance, he based his gig on 2 contrasting sets. The first were covers from influential artists that have impacted his musical career and life, and the second were his own original compositions. With support groups and people buzzing with their anticipation for his beginning piece, he started off with a set of all songs that have developed and shaped him as a musician.
He sang a classic Joni Mitchell song by the name “A Case of You;” from the beautiful ‘Blue’ album. This performance not only set the mood but reminded everyone how much joy this song has brought to them. Edo sang and played with such grace and love that every eye was on his face and every ear was captivated by his vocals. His soulful expression and added funk of his musical talent and depth, all in all showed to everyone in the crowd that this was going to be a worthwhile performance, and memorable evening.
Following his first song came pieces from Nick Drake, James Taylor, Carole King, Jeff Buckley, Norah Jones, Van Morrison and just for fun; of course Chuck Berry. All songs got people cheering and eager for more as he brought to the stage featured guests to accompany him in delivering such pieces. With musicians slapping the bass line to guitarists freely scatting to the funky jazz infused songs; it all came together as a team effort to highlight Edo’s talent and connection to each song. One of the songs “Under the Milkyway” from the 1988 album ‘Starfish’ by the Australian band ‘The Church,’ displayed and showcased perfect piano fills, staccato drum hits and sweet vocals that caused huge dynamic changes that made it one fantastic song!
Edoardo’s blending and falsetto was perfect and beautiful to hear as after each song he immersed himself more and more into the music. In his own words the music was “sunshine to the soul and ears.” His song list ranged from “Humble Me” (Norah Jones), “Saturday Sun” (Nick Drake), “Jewel Box” (Jeff Buckley), and “Hound Dog” (Chuck Berry).
“Close Your Eyes,” by James Taylor and Norah Jones and “Warm Love”, by Van Morrison were the highlight of his first set. Having 3 extraordinary female vocalists, 2 male guitarist, bass player and of course drummer; the unanticipated “Hound Dog” alteration of the original got everyone to sing in and applaud at their sudden take of a classic.
His second set displayed his own lyrics of loss, hope and love. His inspirational compositions that were showcased on this night played funky grooves that outshined his first set and further displayed to everyone how mature and far Edo has come with his music and flourishing career. “There’s a Fire,” and “Afternoon Light” were the first few songs that swam across the room with honesty and affection. Soul, funk, jazz and a modernized twist all were jam packed into his set from scatting to perfect timing and built up of sound.
From compositions that were directed to his family to songs that spoke of heartache and exploration; Edo made this special night into something quite extraordinary and beautiful. Leading in with piano and moving to acoustic guitar, the perfect texture and tone of all his pieces put together, not only reminded his supporters and fans why they love his music, but convinced and gained new fans and admirers to listen for his name and see him perform again and again.
His vulnerability and lush lyrics create the raw sound that grabs you by the heart and drives you to a blissful state of mind. For those who are eager to hear something fresh, smooth, funky and fantastic;
Edo Santoni is on top of the list!
Reviewed by Bianca Compagnoni@Eastside