Elixir (Featuring Katie Noonan)

To be completely honest, songstress Katie Noonan could have sung words from a high school science text book and still sounded magnificent at this year’s Adelaide Fringe. But of course her jazz trio Elixir brought much more to The Spiegeltent stage than just words and music.

From the moment Noonan strolled on stage, it was obvious the audience was in for something special. The night showcased the work of Elixir’s 2011 ARIA Award winning album First Seed Ripening – their long anticipated second record. Their self-titled first album was a top 20 best-seller upon its release in 2003.

Opening with the album’s title track, which Noonan described as a tribute to the miracle of life, the jazz trio then smoothly wove through ‘Stuff of Myths’ and ‘Pierrot’. With only one voice and two instruments on stage, it was clear from these early songs how rich the live Elixir sound is. Soprano saxophonist (and Noonan’s husband) Zac Hurren and Melbourne guitarist Stephen Magnusson made every note count. And of course Noonan’s voice soared to the heavens and back throughout each song. At times the singer-songwriter seemed almost as keen to be just another audience member, as she stepped back from the microphone and closed her eyes to appreciate the music along with the rest of us.

Well known for throwing a tribute song into their albums and live sets, Elixir didn’t disappoint with a stirring cover of Joni Mitchell’s ‘My Old Man’. Taken from the album Blue, Noonan turned music fan for a moment, recommending we all get hold of a copy of this musical masterpiece. Along with sharing her love of music, Noonan shared stories about her songwriting process and the many ways her family have woven their way into her creative endeavours.

While amazed by the joy her children bring her, Noonan has penned a song about those blissful moments when a mother can capture a few moments of peace and quiet. ‘A Circle of Moonlight’ tells of those times when the dishwasher is stacked, the clothes have been folded, and the kids are in bed. Only Noonan could take such everyday ideas and weave them into a stunning jazz song.

Before closing the show with ‘Snapshot’, Noonan promised to return to Adelaide later this year with a new act at this year’s Cabaret Festival. Like all of Noonan’s work – it’s sure to be another mesmerising performance.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Sum & The Harbour Agency present
Elixir (Featuring Katie Noonan)

The Idolize Spiegeltent, Garden of Unearthly Delights
As part of Adelaide Fringe
19 February 2012