Went to see Mariza, a Portuguese Fado singer yesterday evening. Was a great experience. I saw her once on Belgian television, a couple of years ago. Wanted to check her out live now.
Concert was at the Savoy, a venue in Saint Patricksstreet. People had to queue outside for nearly twenty minutes before they get in. And so did I. There were no numbered seats, but I was quite lucky, as I found myself a chair on the second row. As things go in Ireland, most Irish prefered to take some alcohol in the concert hall. Unfortunately they are not all that clever and at least two people in my direct neighbourhood managed to knock over their pint. I do understand now why in Belgium people are not allowed to bring drink in the room.
From the moment Mariza came on stage, everyone became silent. Yes, everyone, not everything, as the bloody airconditiong was making an anoying noise during the whole concert. A quite frustrating thing, if you are enjoying the kind of music where the moments of silence are nearly as important as the moments of singing and playing. Can not understand they didn't switch off that stupid thing. There was no need for it at all. Was actually quite freezing.
Mariza sings Fado from both the North and the South of Portugal. She has a great voice, a great expression and with her long black dress and her bleached hair, she left a big impression on me. It's amazing how she played with the audiance. They were quite when she wanted it and clapped their hands when the music needed it. She brought some amazing musicians with her. Especially the basist from Mozambique was great. His solo was just top. Loved the percussionist as well.
After a standing ovation, they all came back for an encore. Was even more impressive. Mariza ordered her musicians to unplug their instruments and they came all together in the front of the stage to sing a 'song for us to cry'. She didn't used a microphone either. But still everyone could hear here. Massive voice. Unbelievable. I think she is coming to Brussels one of the next weeks, just go and experience fado yourself. It is definitely a must.
Saskia
