Steve Tallis is a Griot bluesman – he tells stories and sings the blues. He is a hollerer – a form of singing that emphasizes hardship and vents feelings. He sings acapella – without music accompaniment. He sings with passion!
I have reviewed previous releases of Steve’s including his latest release – MEMORY GHOST
So, on the evening of Thursday November 13, along with TAGG publisher Mick Pacholli, we visited the George Lane venue in St Kilda, with expectations that we were in for a top nights music.
It wasn’t long before I spied well know Melbourne music writer, David N. Pepperell (aka Doc Pepper), deep in conversation with the man of the night, Steve Tallis.
Steve totally entertained with a selection of his tracks from his many albums. His acapella is fantastic and his songs demand to be listened to. There is no “Moon in June and spoon”, type lyrics.
The audience was small, but as Steve declared, he plays in front of crowds up to 30,000 and it doesn’t matter if it is 30,000 or 3 (and this night certainly wasn’t 3) – he gives his performance his all.
Steve has supported some of the most important artists of previous decades, including Bob Dylan, and as Steve proudly shares, he is one of the few supporting artists to be asked to come back and chill with Bob after Bob’s performance.
He makes these claims with no ego involved. it’s matter of fact. He is simply recognised for his uniqueness and skill.
I, along with everyone in that audience, were thoroughly entertained. Steve works most of the time out of Paris, he works throughout the world, and returns regularly to Perth, to keeps his roots moist.
We were so fortunate to have this opportunity to share just one evening with him.
Here is a short video featuring a few short selections of Steve’s performance.
