A When Steel Talks Exclusive
Harlem, New York, USA
Panist Tony Hartman and the Great Barrier Reefs at The Shrine
In one shape or fashion, the steelpan has been present and making music in Harlem since its arrival - when Rudy King brought the instrument to America. However, it is safe to say that the Nashville-based 'Great Barrier Reefs' presented a musical amalgamation with the steelpan at the lead that has never been seen, heard or experienced before uptown, when they performed at the Shrine last week.
Acts performing at the trendy Shrine have routinely pushed the envelope and redefined the ‘norm’ - so when WST (When Steel Talks) journeyed to the Shrine to take in Great Barrier Reefs' performance we were open to all possibilities. But to be honest when you see the banjo and the steelpan on stage you can't help but go “Hmmm.” Well, they may be from Nashville and there is a banjo - but there is no ‘twang’ here. And yes, there is a steelpan, but there is no ‘Yellow Bird’ here.
Great Barrier Reefs bring their own unique fusion of Funk, Rock, Bluegrass, Gospel, Jazz and Country. And when you combine their blend of sax, electric banjo, and steelpan with keyboard, bass and drums - the combinations provide distinctive voicing and sound. In a forty-five minute set WST experienced great music with something to say, and boundless possibilities. The Great Barrier Reefs is more than a collection of very talented musicians who perform well together.
- read more at: http://www.panonthenet.com/news/2015/apr/great-barrier-reefs-in-harlem-4-8-2015.htm
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