Home-grown powerhouse singer, arranger and composer Kim Spargo and her six-piece band the Collected Musicians presented an engaging and nostalgic performance of the songs of Carole King and Roberta Flack.
King of Flack opened somewhat nervously with the Flack and Peabo Bryson hit “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love”, with one of Spargo’s back-up singers joining her for the duet.
An introduction to the childhood and musical beginnings of King was followed by the title track to one of the biggest albums of all time, Tapestry. Spargo’s voice was in second gear with the softer ballads, clearly itching to hit the big notes.
The audience did not have to wait long, as an upbeat rocky version of “I Feel the Earth Move” showcased the power of her voice and the talent of the band, which captured the feel of this song with tasteful guitar and piano. The two male back-up singers were very cool, with great voices.
Spargo interspersed each song with the story and struggles of Flack and King; her passion and respect for these artists was evident. She connected with the audience with her perky, honest persona and Adelaide humour.
The sadness of aspects of King’s life was brought out in “It’s Too Late, Baby”. Then, back to Flack, the mood stayed melancholy with the beautiful “Jessie” and a lovely classical arrangement with violin, double bass and piano. A funkier “Where Is the Love” again gave Spargo’s voice more freedom, with a rich groove from the band.
The singer shared the similarities in her own story and emotion with those of her idols, leading to the epic “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”. King’s “So Far Away” followed, with a tasteful guitar solo and a change of pace. An emotional rendition of Flack’s unusual arrangement of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” again showed Spargo’s range and power.
“Killing Me Softly” was highlighted with a pretty, acoustic sound and great duets with the backup singers. These guys should have their own show. An encore of Flack’s version of “I Feel the Earth Move” got the audience involved and humming the tunes on the way out.
It’s great to see local talent like this showcased at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival.
Kim Spargo’s season at Artspace has now finished. The Adelaide Cabaret Festival continues until June 21.
