BWW Reviews: LITTLE DIANA AND THE BIG FUZZ Brings The Motown Sound To Potts Point This Winter

Wednesday 10th June 2015, 8:30pm, Hayes Theatre, Potts Point

Bree Langridge and her band combine copious amounts of sequins, big hair and iconic songs in LITTLE DIANA AND THE BIG FUZZ as they channel Diana Ross and The Funk Brothers for an hour of music and stories.

Backed by a four piece band, led by Kuki Tipoki on guitar and vocals, Langridge assumes the persona of Little Diana, based on Diana Ross as she shares stories apparently from Ross' life including the childhood desire to sing in an era when she was expected to grow up to be a nurse or a teacher to sitting on the steps of Motown Records watching the talent come and go, waiting for the day they'd decide they needed a singer and realizing that whilst she was making Motown money, she had lost control of her life to her manager.

Langridge handles the range of Ross' hits which ranged from standards, R&B, Soul and Blues easily and clearly enjoys the music and sharing the stories. The songs that range from Ross' solo work, Supremes days and movies, have been appropriate selected to fit to the story being told and the arrangements and presentation demonstrate an understanding and connection to the music ensuring this is more than just a tribute concert.

Tipoki provides a contrast to Langridge's vocals during costume changes and duets, also acting as the focus for references to Motown CEO Berry Gordy, Ross' manager and early love interest. Additionally, Langridge has easy interaction with the rest of the band which comprises Darryl Beaton (Keys), Kevin Mendoza (drums) and Martin Carl Serra (Bass) and highlights the feel of Motown where a beat was inspired rather than just prescribed.

Whilst highlighting glamour that surrounds Ross, the two costume changes during a 1 hour performance are an interesting choice but it does allow time to showcase the band's talent. The choice of equipment is also interesting, with the large foam microphone obscuring Langridge's mouth for a fair portion of the performance and the stand being left at center stage a number of times whilst not in use.

LITTLE DIANA AND THE BIG FUZZ is a beautifully told story that takes the audience on a journey through well-known songs from Motown from the 60's to the 80's and shares a human side and history of the star.

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