Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *
There is nothing better than a good first impression, especially live as opposed to the world of recorded music. Studio time, whilst being very precious and expensive also affords the slight luxury of being able to go over a slight mistake, a small error in delivery, the pause where there shouldn’t be any and to make sure that the next take is vastly superior. Live and in the raw, the full glare of house lights piercing through otherwise darkness and fixated upon the artist is enough to give anyone the wobbles, however there are no second chances upon the stage. For Kate Hazeldine, the only reason why second chances don’t exist in that environment is because she doesn’t need them.
Opening up for a large selection of bands during the dying days of January is a tall order but Kate Hazeldine took it her stride and gave such a great account of herself, returning for one night as a solo performer again and away from her full band, that surely there would have been interested parties writing down with a hastily grabbed pen the date of her next gig.
The feminine grace on a keyboard; the assured knowledge that no matter what, she would not only get through her set with a smile and an addition of the healthy glow of putting your music out into the open world but with nothing short of her admirable ability to keep her company.
With just a few songs to get the audience settled, Ms. Hazeldine tore straight into her set and opened up what was in effect a great night for women musicians. The tracks she performed, such as the outstanding Collisions, The Fire and Lifeline, should be viewed as required listening by anyone who likes their music. Not only deeply moving in parts but a testament to the art of song writing.
Despite only having time for four songs, Kate Hazeldine paved the way for glorious sets by ME and Deboe, Shannen Bamford and Arms and Hearts in the first half of a super night at Zanzibar.
Kate Hazeldine is performing at Korova on February 28th 2014 with her full band.
Ian D. Hall