Live Review: Rodriguez, Jen Cloher

The tale of Rodriguez is one that ultimately deserved to come to light, a story equally as heart-warming in its conclusion as it was heart-breaking in its initiation, one of the most engaging true accounts of what happens when inspirational talent meets the insatiable corruption of the music industry.

Had the music of Sixto Rodriquez been received the way it deserved to be upon Cold Fact’s initial release in 1970, the legend could have been performing at the newly renovated Adelaide Oval last night, on the back of a near 50-year career of bold and wide-reaching success. Though the show was engagingly brilliant, this unshakeable notion left a tinge of sadness hanging on proceedings.

Jen Cloher provided a very fitting supporting performance, though whether plagued by a lack of confidence or material, she seemed to converse with the crowd for the same duration as she actually played her guitar and sang. This wasn’t all bad as her slow execution and dry sense of humour suggested she was just as much an entertainer as a musician. She was interesting, and nice to listen to.  

After an all too lengthy intermission Rodriguez’ backing band took the stage to many a cheer and applause from the crowd. The man himself was then escorted on stage and introduced to the crowd. It was amazing how everyone felt they were a part of something underground and in the know, yet were sharing a theatre with thousands of people. The moment Rodriguez began singing his songs it was apparent that his performance is an ultra-clear embodiment of the modesty that he represents. The volume was low, yet it was carefully curated in this manner as the entirely seated performance emphasised listening to the music. It was a masterfully gentle set full of funky folk lullabies, especially in comparison to last week’s cacophony of Miley Cyrus. Above the astounding talent of his Australian backing band (he has a different backing band everywhere he tours), who took the way each of his songs sound to another level, Rodriguez himself would gently make love to his acoustic guitar, the perfect accompaniment for his indescribable voice and inarguably poetic lyricism.

It is absolutely amazing that Sixto Rodriguez is 72 years old, his minimalistic performance and onstage banter allowing him to come across as superiorly happy and humble. After many standing ovations and a sizable encore Rodriguez was led back off of the stage, and all in the audience felt suitably treated as they wandered wide-eyed out of the Entertainment Centre.