Review: NEVER DATE A SONGWRITER

Shanon D Whitelock has had an extensive career touring the world as a musical director. His skill as a song writer is on display in his latest solo show Never Date a Songwriter, a song cycle of various relationships experienced by Whitelock in his life to date. Set in the kitsch backdrop of the Butterfly Club, Never Date a Song Writer manages to blend soulful ballad with witty patter song to particular success. The set is diverse in its style. While the subject matter remains similar, there is enough variance and familiarity to keep our attention throughout. Whitelock's melodies produce poignant progressions that elicit some meaningful response from his audience. While at times his lyrics seem somewhat rudimentary his melodies cannot be questioned. Nor too can his voice, which soars through the material. There is something to be a said about songwriters singing their own compositions. Whitelock describes writing as therapy and these sessions are heard in his vocals, which match his songwriting and his musicianship, clearly Whitelock's gift. Never Date A Songwriter will appeal to a diverse audience. While Whitelock's material is particularly personal, the notion of ideas and experiences are relevant to all.

Never Date A Songwriter

The Butterfly Club

Carson Place Melbourne

Tickets: www.thebutterflyclub.com.au