Katie Noonan and Karin Schaupp

Songs of the Southern Skies (Kin/Universal)

This reviewer first saw Katie Noonan perform well over a decade ago at Brisbane’s Powerhouse Theatre. Fast forward to 2012 and Noonan is back in the theatre for two nights with a new sparring partner, Karin Schaupp. Katie sang up a storm and Schaupp’s work on the classical guitar was nothing short of magnificent.

The show, which was first rate, was based around the debut album for the pair: Songs of the Southern Skies. A concept record, the album sees the duo interpreting work by the likes of Nick Cave, Neil Finn, Goyte and others. As in concert, there’s a daring in the recording that sees the pair prepared to push the envelope. Both artists are virtuosos, but it’s the way they break the songs down and re-build them that highlights their individual gifts.

Tim Finn’s I Hope I Never is a solo guitar piece. Heart’s A Mess boasts a choir and the reading here is stunning. Guests include Clare Bowditch, Geoffrey Gurrumul, Iva Davies, Yunupingu and Chris Cheney. Despite the heavy hitters, the real stars are on the sleeve. Together the pair has created a beautiful alternate take on the great Australasian songbook. It’s hard to pick favourites, but try Cold Chisel’s Saturday Night for size. Daring, bold and beautifully executed, the album is a must for any fan of either Katie or Karin. Roll on volume two.

[rating: 4/5]

Sean Sennett