By Norm Dixon and Sean Malloy
Humorous and fun are the two key words that describe the Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra. Their performance at the Basement in Sydney was a sight to behold.
Imagine nine people with salmon pink suits, of classic designs of the '30s to '60s, with haircuts ranging from classic short rudeboy cuts, long Beatnik hair to Rastafarian style. The lead singer, the 10th member, didn't wear a pink suit but looked something like a '70s Harlem drug pusher. With a shaved head and a thin moustache that goes down to his chin, he wore a gold glitter shirt, white-rimmed bug-eyed shades, white flared pants and a giant black feather boa.
Two problems with the venue became obvious. Firstly, considering the price of admission, drinks were very expensive, requiring patrons to discuss the matter with their bank managers before buying a drink.
Secondly, the tables for customers who were eating were placed in front of the stage, which meant uncomfortable crowding around the bar and no place to dance. Eventually these tables were moved after the band's manager appealed to diners before the final encore.
Unfortunately, this elitist layout and pricing policy are becoming the norm rather than the exception at Sydney venues catering for jazz and other minority music tastes.
The "scene" at the Basement was made up of a few old rudeboys and rudegirls, who were obviously part of the ska music scene in the '80s, revisiting their youth, an assortment of after-workers, Japanese tourists and many others curious to see this strange outfit from Japan. The place was packed.
The music was uplifting — it is amazing just how many big band classics, soul numbers, brassy Latin workouts or common show tunes can be played to the infectious ska beat.
These former Tokyo art students are very talented musicians and in no time all hell had broken loose both on stage and in the audience. The second set was utter mayhem. All 10 musicians were on the move constantly in what could only be described as controlled anarchy.
One of the more remarkable sights was the trombone player, who wielded his instrument like a samurai sword. Only luck seemed to prevent it coming in contact with the other players in the boisterous brass section. We were at the back of the room and even then ducked instinctively as he flailed it about.
Favourites of the night included a frenetic rendition of "Elephant Walk" (which got the biggest cheer), the Sesame Street theme (which was too short), a tune from one of the famous Godzilla movies and a bizarre piano accordion and whistling solo by keyboard player Oki. He also played some sizzling solos on the Hammond organ.
And if you ever wondered what really happened to Elvis, he's alive and well playing baritone sax with this monster mutant band from Tokyo.
The Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra will be appearing at the WOMAD Festival in Adelaide over the February 19-21 weekend and later in Melbourne and Alice Springs. Details are available by phoning (02) 356 4622.