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It Ain't Easy Being Elvis

Every Generation Festival event review by Judith Bruton

Wow! From the moment the Germein Sisters harmonised and thrilled us with their melodies, I was enchanted. Thought-provoking lyrics of 'How Can I Close My Eyes', written by Georgia (songwriter, lead vocalist, pianist) while touring overseas, created a standout song reflecting a troubled world. Georgia and sisters Clara (drums, guitar, backing vocals) & Ella (electric cello, bass guitar, backing vocals) have showcased at many festivals, opening for Rohan Keating in Germany recently. No surprise they are gaining international success. The talented sisters warmed the Adelaide audiences on a cool October night, concluding with a fun sing-along 'Oh, Oh My', and their optimistic 'Sunshine'.

After interval, Andy Seymour and The Southern Gentlemen, an outstanding six-piece band, treated us to a world premiere performance of his one-man show. Andy's stance, deep voice and easy effected southern drawl conjured up the original Elvis and kept us spellbound. He entertained us with insights into his 25 years on the road as the epitome of the many 'Elvi' who keep the master's spirit alive. Video clips, songs and anecdotes from the outrageous to the poignant, kept us laughing to the point of tears. An exceptional raconteur, Andy painted many vivid word scenarios of hilarious gigs and challenging situations: a fraught appearance at the base of Mt Fujiyama resulted in him being concussed for days; a visit to a backwoods American bar became a nightmare when he and his friends had to escape a monstering redneck fan; and tragically, he once witnessed the unforeseen on-stage death of an aged Elvis impersonator.

Andy's rendition of 'Are you lonesome tonight', as he performed it at a Texas event after consuming too much moonshine, was the best version I've ever enjoyed. Still laughing! After an enthusiastic standing ovation, Andy and his band farewelled us with a powerful rendition of the Elvis gospel song 'American Trilogy', alluding to current troubling American affairs. Glory hallelujah! And a second standing ovation!

 

COTA SA acknowledges the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains as the traditional custodians of the land our headquarters occupy. We also acknowledge all Aboriginal nations throughout South Australia. We honour Aboriginal peoples’ continuing connection to Country and recognise that their sovereignty was never ceded. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal people.