Vocal pyrotechnics and superb musicianship. That’s the best way to describe the electrifying performance of Woody Holler and his orchestra last week, the final offering in the South Okanagan Concert Association 2012/13 series. It was an evening to remember, a great way to end a successful season.
Cowboy inspired songs such as “Ghost Riders in the Sky” and Cole Porter’s “Don’t Fence Me In” mingled with Fats Waller’s “Honeysuckle Rose” and a gypsy influenced version of the Agustin Lara’s perennial favourite “Granada” only to give way to more finger snapping, toe tapping, shuffling and jazzy swing beats throughout the evening. And the show thriller? Some pretty extreme yodeling by lead singer Darryl Brunger aka Woody Holler – especially delivering Wilf Carter’s “There’s a Love Knot in My Lariat”.
But it was more than the yodeling that caught the audience right from the outset and held us through a much warranted standing ovation at evening’s end. It was the full, rich sound of four very talented musicians who have coupled clever arrangements, musical genre fusing and the joy of performing into one delightful package.
Throughout the evening Greg Lowe’s flying fingers on the guitar never ceased to amaze especially in “Czardas”. Richard Moody made his violin sing yielding up sweet, poignant notes that no one wanted to end before turning things around to make us laugh with his artful violin whinny. Daniel Koulak, on bass, was absolutely essential to the dramatic introductions to many of the pieces, particularly in “Granada” and the jazz inspired offerings. Together their liquid harmonies ably supported Woody’s uniquely rich and adaptable tenor voice as he alternately crooned, sang from the saddle or slipped into operatic style. He’s no slouch on the guitar either.
If the evening began with a somewhat stagey or practiced feeling, it didn’t last long. Relaxed humour characterized the entire performance, especially Koulak’s dry wit. Their infectious enthusiasm for the music and for each other fully engaged the audience. It was easy to forgive a few little lapses including Woody’s somewhat strained notes in his last piece “O Sole Mio”. It had been a long evening for him – but not long enough for the audience. We want them back!
The 2013/4 season is shaping up to be another banner year. Save some money and get your season ticket at early bird prices by going to Imperial Office Pro in Osoyoos or Beyond Bliss in Oliver.
Submitted by Sue Morhun