19 September 2024 7:30 PM

 

The Fortitude Music Hall

 

Presented by Queensland Symphony Orchestra in association with the Brisbane Festival this year, The Cat Empire had joined forces with the legendary Queensland Symphony Orchestra to create an unforgettable experience at The Fortitude Music Hall. There has been a tradition of modern and popular Australian artists working with the local symphony orchestra, with amazing orchestral compositions, e.g. Hilltop Hoods, restrung albums. The Cat Empire with Queensland Symphony Orchestra promised an exhilarating collaboration that can only be described as a “symphony of new sounds and epic fusion” and it had the room toe tapping, head bopping and wiping away tears all in the same breath.

 

The Cat Empire brought new material to the table in addition to featuring tracks from their early days remixed for a modern audience and fused with the sounds produced by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. The performance presented an opportunity for long-time fans to reconnect with The Cat Empire music and experience it through a new lens. Newcomers had the chance to enjoy a distinctive fusion of Afro-Cuban, Seychellois Kreol, Brazilian, and flamenco music, while connecting with like-minded individuals in a celebration of music, life, and love. 

 

Singer and Songwriter of The Cat Empire’s Felix Riebl brought his own unique flavour to the performance and a magnetic stage presence, which made him especially entertaining to watch. Riebl, a storyteller at heart, used a mixture of body language and facial expressions to punctuate the meaning behind the lyrics of each song he sang. Although supported by a number of talented artists, Riebl served as the emotional anchor for the performance, as he shared stories of life, love and the loss of his younger brother, which deeply resonated with the audience.

 

At key intervals of the performance, the extremely talented flamenco artists served to enhance the unique blend of sounds being produced by both The Cat Empire and Queensland Symphony Orchestra. The artists created a syncopated rhythm with the heels of their shoes as they would dance impassioned and in time to the music which was followed by a cheering of the crowd that had nearly raised the roof of the Fortitude Music Hall. The inclusion of these talented performers added an authentic flavour to the performance which made for a memorable experience, one that will be looked upon favourably for years to come.

 

The Queensland Symphony Orchestra was led by the capable and highly sophisticated Vanessa Scammell who conducted the musicians with ease, while allowing the instrumentalists the space to find their groove and bring their own element to the performance. By the second act it felt as though every musician on stage was connected by an unspeakable bond, pouring their emotions into the instruments which in turn could be felt by each and every member of the audience. Showcasing top-tier flamenco artists, this immersive orchestral experience presented this iconic band in a way you have never heard them before.

 

Review: Joanna Letic