Kangaroo Moon @ The Square and Compass 20.10.2018

There's something about Kangaroo Moon, it goes without saying that they're all amazing musicians, it's not that, I think it's their uniqueness, the uniqueness of their sound, drawing as they do from many wells, some old and deep, near and far, it's the way their music seems to flow effortlessly from them, so naturally. Kangaroo Moon are a band of many, with a fluid line up, and can come in many manifestations, each a slightly different beast, each though an equal wonder, some funkier (the set/line up at last years Avalon Ballroom Weekender, for example), some folkier.  Tonight’s  manifestation is a folkie one, Elliet Mackrell on violin, David Williams on things with strings and assorted stuff, Mark Robson keys, whistle and didge, Gem Quinn on drums and Nick Marshall providing guitar. Their performances are always a joy, and tonight was to be no exception. The band have a certain timeless quality to their music which speaks to the soul, it resonates, it stirs your ancestral dna, I reckon. The way their music touches you is real, you can't help but move and be moved. Elliet's violin grabs a hold and draws you in, and the way David plucks at his string, eyes closed, as if channelling the sounds is wonderful, whenever I seen Kangaroo Moon, these two musicians have me transfixed. As for Gem, is this the same powerfully frenetic drummer who drums for psyche/punk/rock beat combo Here and Now, yes it is, though tonight he shows another side to his drumming, a versatile and talented drummer for sure. Mark (also of Here and Now) is exhausting to watch, always multitasking, singing, keys, twiddling stuff whilst periodically blowing a didge and penny whistle, whilst guitarist Nick looks like the happiest man in the world, beaming smiles as he plays. The band did two sets, both filled with wonderful tracks, beautifully delivered and both sets were received by the audience to rapturous applause. They're consummate musicians, who clearly love their music, and that joy is infectious, and we all went down with it, I don't think there was a foot in the room that wasn't tapping or dancing. The venue too adds to the heady atmosphere, The Square and Compass at Worth Matravers, a public house of fine repute and high standing, though not high ceilings. Now, it's not big, to the point were it's a lot like seeing the band playing in your front room, that's no complaint, mind, and merely adds to the beauty of it all. The Square and Compass is the perfect venue for a musical soiree of nature. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening, it always is. Though as with all such evenings, it's over far too soon. A big thank you to the all the band, the venue and everybody there, for another memorable night of fine music. If you haven't, and get the chance to catch Kangaroo Moon, make sure you do! If you're passing Purbeck be sure to pop into the The Square and Compass. And if you're passing Purbeck and Kangaroo Moon are playing at the The Square and Compass, you'd be mad not to be there!