Hetty Kate: New Wave

“The real gem is Hetty’s voice, stunningly evocative and tinged with an infinite sadness.” John Freeman (UK) 2011

As the door closed on the 1970s, British New Wave emerged, a vibrant fusion of punk’s raw defiance and pop’s melodious allure. This era, illuminated by the neon glow of synthesizers, mirrored the vivid hues and bold contours of 80s fashion, singing stories of societal transformation and weaving intricate narratives of love and life.

Travel back in time with four award-winning (Generation X) jazz musicians as they reimagine the anthems of the British New Wave movement through the lens and language of jazz.

Melbourne-based musicians James Sherlock (guitar), Ben Robertson (double bass), Danny Fisher (drums) and Paris-based vocalist Hetty Kate present seminal music from David Bowie, XTC, Echo and The Bunnymen, Bronski Beat, Kate Bush, and more.

The quartet interprets the music with adventurous improvisation, complex harmonies, and virtuosity while masterfully preserving the essence of the original. Vocalist Hetty Kate allows the lyrics to breathe, always supported, and sometimes challenged by the instrumentalists. It’s not about nostalgia; it’s about listening with new ears.

As incongruous as it may seem to use jazz language to revisit a genre that rose from the rebellious ashes of punk, the musicians find many similarities between these two styles. Both Jazz and British New Wave created vibrant new sounds that impacted society, fashion, and culture across the globe. Without a doubt, both defined their eras for generations to come.

Website : https://new-wave.hettykate.com/
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