THE SUBTERRANEANS + RAI THISTLETHWAYTE @Blue Beat Thursday 23rd August 2012

By taking the word fusion to a whole new level, THE SUBTERRANEANS capture the funk, jazz, rock and reggae elements that made Friday night’s show a complete success. From the cool, funky guitar riffs, to the smooth rebellious saxophone, what else could there be to take this group to the next level? Striking bass, pounding drums, and of course, to the delight of the crowd, keys player Rai Thistlethwayte from Thirsty Merc.

With their expression and perfect communication with each other, their setlist kept engaging and thrilling. Each with instrumental solos and banging dynamics to fill the room, it was the start of a promising, popping night!

Imagine Led Zeppelin and Bob Marley playing jazz-funk together, and with their unique experimental techniques, it displays the qualities and jam-packed feel of THE SUBTERRANEANS!

Seeing Rai perform was a great surprise; not only did he perform terrifically, but he buzzed with energy from each member of the ensemble. With James Ryan’s blazing saxophone, to Steve Hunter on electric bass feeding off Craig Naughton’s drums and, of course, James Muller ripping the guitar to shreds, all in all it was a solid group effort!

Their melodies were consistent and overflowing with contemporary elements and expression that built on their rock influences. The group’s unique performance and drive makes them an act to watch and admire.

Their third song ‘Together We Stand’ got the crowd cheering and truly impressed us all with their talent and interpretation of fusion. Accented pulses and offbeat phrases drew together their idea of what experimental music can be shown through jazz and reggae music.

With Blue Beat’s fun and comfortable setting, the whole feel of the night was energetic and full of musical fusion power!

Reviewed by Bianca Compagnoni @Eastside Radio.