REVIEW: White Swan Black Swan

WHITE SWAN BLACK SWAN
THE MIGHTY MIGHTY
THURSDAY 20 SEPTEMBER
Words and Photo's by Charlette Hannah

Sonya Waters

Ben Howe

With ethereal guitar and melodious, driving piano, the indie/country duo of White Swan Black Swan were a real treat to the ears on Thursday night. Singer Sonya Waters started off the set with her beautiful Cyndi Lauper-like voice - mature and powerful, yet with a slight childish lilt.

The songs had lovely circular melodies, with gently epic guitar playing, and with the piano as driving instrument, it made a nice contrast to the standard guitar focused rock.

Sonya and Ben Howe switched lead vocals - Sonya's songs were White Swan and Ben's Black Swan. Ben also had great voice, although not quite as standout as Sonja's. It was nice to have the variety in the lead vocals, as well as hear their occasional harmonies. At one point Sonja played a song with a lovely French feel with Ben providing some percussion.

It was over too soon - I hope they come back to Wellington with the full band before too long.