......touched by a sledgehammer....

Out of sheer and utter frustration, I am posting this poem as a tribute of sorts to being (recently) completely gobsmacked by the kind of talent that comes along once in a generation. It has been 30 years since I was knocked off my feet by musical talent and expression of such calibre, and in vain I tried to write about this experience. I have found myself unable to adequately "voice" the impact that this young bad had on me at my first viewing, and each time since I have been lucky enough to see them perform. In poetry form I have gotten a little closer....but still feel a sense of complete and utter inadequacy....!

Suffice to say, I feel honoured, and relieved, to have been a witness to what I (and I am not alone...) strongly feel could be the next major musical act in New Zealand and beyond. Not just because of the incredible musicianship and composition that belongs to this group of young men, but also because of their intense committment to their craft, and clear enjoyment of what they are doing as a group of friends. There is a humility present in all of these lads that is rarely seen at this point in a musical career (the requirement to ride the "ego" wave - even if its contrived - seems to be a given) and a lack of awareness of their impact on an audience as yet that is extremely appealing.

So - having presented all my cheap rationalisations...*smile*....here is the poem (and a pic of the young lead singer who is described)....

.....touched……

Electrified – the air
the night carries – expectation
…and a small fear of disappointment

A stature small – the boy man
seems afraid, avoiding
…deep brown eyes alight with internal fire

Synergy – the band
the music delivered to perfection
… awed silence precedes applause

Voice and song – indescribable
could never have been predicted
… oh our deceptive assumptions!

Knowing – complete knowing
that we have been touched by a Master
…gaze in wonder at this Boy/Man Being.

Thankful – to have been blessed this time and place
this night burned into our memories
…and anticipation of his journey begins.