Often, a live music experience can go to the next level when three things happen simultaneously.
- When the musicians are so bloody good on their instruments that you become transfixed.
- When the artists on stage are so authentically into it that their collective vibe of exhilaration becomes irresistibly contagious.
- And when that energy from the stage spreads out across the audience and you all are in sync, responding as one to the music.
When all three are happening, it’s always one helluva night.
Newcastle band Spuz seems to do this every time they play.
Spuz are not a cover band playing current and classic hits for punters out to party or pick up. This band is about passion and awe-inspiring musicianship.
Spuz are a 6 to 9-piece (depending on the gig) instrumental fusion band that blends multiple genres into infectious tunes that are mind-blowingly good. Led by guitarist Andrew de Souza, Spuz can take you on a journey that will make you feel everything from elation to disbelief. The standard of musicianship is sublime and what they are able to create together, from irresistible grooves to astonishing displays of musical dexterity, is equally as impressive.
Now, I’m not normally a big fan of instrumental music so I admit that I went to my first Spuz gig with some reservations about whether I would actually enjoy it. How quickly the doubts dissipated. You only have to watch de Souza to get a sense of the delight and mastery on show. He is guitarist, conductor, maestro and king vibe-maker, urging the others on to produce those special musical moments that endure as memories. His sheer joy of being up there doing his thing with his talented ensemble of virtuosos is both compelling and catching.
Spuz have released two EPs, Jenga Jam and Bingo Bam, with the single Space Baguette lifted from the former. Space Baguette kicks off with some subtly clever guitar before delivering an enticing blend of jazz and prog rock that features some nice solo guitar moments.
One Big Breakfast, also from the Janga Jam EP, is another song to check out. After an intro that mixes what sounds like rain with some sparse guitar chords, comes the sweet moment when the whole band jumps in. The sound is immediately tight and smooth. The song revolves around a central riff with some fine nuances and accents, allowing space for guitar, sax and trumpet solos to feature, adding the layered textures that make Spuz shine.
Bluebottles At The Beach, also from Jenga Jam, is cruisy and coastal. This song is a great example of how the members of Spuz use their instruments to paint a picture or tell a story. Their music can not only cross genres but also, it seems, it can cross artforms too.
Bingo Bam, their 2nd EP’s title track, is upbeat and uplifting. This band can move you and I’m not just talking about your feet tapping along to the beat. They have the ability to pick you up and take you for a ride through emotions you just don’t expect.
It’s actually hard to convey just how good Spuz is. They were undoubtedly one of the highlights of the 2022 Newcastle Jazz Festival, transforming the packed room at City Hall into a throng of people connecting to the band and each other through the music. The feeling of sheer enjoyment in the room was palpable. If Spuz had scheduled a gig for the very next day, it is highly likely that every single person in that room would have backed up for another slice of sonic bliss.
Even if you don’t think you are a fan of jazz or instrumental music, you really do have to see Spuz live. You may just find, as I did, a sweet piece of musical nirvana.
NEXT GIG:
TBA (c’mon guys!)
FOLLOW:
https://www.facebook.com/spuzband/
https://www.instagram.com/spuzband/
STREAM:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7656kKLcFMOF8pNMZWTBFJ
