Do you ever feel as though you were born in the wrong era? That’s me. I think I’m better suited to the 1920s – the glamour, the glitz, the red lipstick and stockings.
When I saw Ali Bodycoat playing with The Embassy Big Band as part of Perth Festival, I knew I had to put my dancing shoes on.
When I got there, it felt like I was stepping back in time. The Perth Town Hall was decked out in round cabaret tables with low lighting, and we could sip on martinis as we watched Ali and the band take to the stage.
The music didn’t disappoint. Opening with the double bassist and pianist, the duo serenaded the audience while we dined on nibbles catered by Gather Foods. The 16-piece band then joined them for a couple of swinging jazz numbers.The band were utmost professionals and we particularly enjoyed the saxophonist solos.
When Ali entered in a floor-length gown, she brought an extra touch of sparkle. Ali’s voice was stunning. She serenaded us in her sultry, smoky, and expressive tones, switching to scat singing perfection when required.
Frank Sinatra’s L-O-V-E was a hit, and so too was Ella Fitzgerald’s Dream a Little Dream of Me.
The audience got the memo, and glammed it up, with some women turning up in full-length ball gowns. The dance floor was never empty. Couples who truly knew how to swing were swirling across the floor in coordinated steps.
It was impossible not to tap your foot along to the tunes. The energy in the room was electrifying. You could’ve easily thought you were living in 1925 if it wasn’t for the lack of cigarette smoke and the crowd occasionally capturing the memorable moments on their iphones.
If you love jazz, wish you were born 100 years ago, and have a glamour dress sitting in your wardrobe that you feel needs dusting off, then Ali Bodycoat and The Embassy Big Band is where it’s at.