A humid Saturday evening in Bristol saw The Bristol Beacon open its doors to GoGo Penguin, one of today’s most innovative jazz groups. This highly anticipated event drew a diverse crowd, eager to experience the unique fusion of sounds that has earned GoGo Penguin a reputation as trailblazers in the contemporary jazz scene.
The sound of GoGo Penguin is infused with influences from Radiohead and Aphex Twin, stretching traditional boundaries and creating musical wonders. The group’s chemistry was apparent throughout their performance in the newly refurbished Beacon Hall, with each member playing respectfully off the other. The pianist’s intricate melodies intertwined seamlessly with the deep, resonant tones of the double bass, while the drummer’s dynamic rhythms provided a compelling backdrop. I was particularly impressed with how the band managed to fill up such a large space with just a piano, a double bass, and a drum kit, creating an immersive soundscape that captivated the audience.
The trio’s album, “Everything Is Going To Be OK,” epitomizes their innovative approach to music. The album features elegant cinematic peaks, solo interludes, thoughtful moments, and emotional depth, showcasing the band’s ability to convey a wide range of emotions through their instruments. Each track is a journey, with the music ebbing and flowing, drawing listeners in and holding their attention from start to finish. GoGo Penguin’s ability to blend traditional analog sound with a modern and mature touch is particularly impressive in an era of sonically liberated music, where experimentation and boundary-pushing are the norms.
Throughout the evening, the audience was visibly moved by the performance. There were moments of intense energy where the crowd was electrified by the band’s synergy and virtuosity, and quieter, more introspective moments where the hall was filled with a palpable sense of awe. The newly refurbished Beacon Hall, with its enhanced acoustics and modern amenities, provided the perfect setting for such a nuanced and powerful performance.
In conclusion, GoGo Penguin’s concert at The Bristol Beacon was a testament to their remarkable talent and innovative spirit. Their ability to create such a rich and textured sound with a minimalist setup is truly extraordinary. As they continue to push the boundaries of jazz and explore new musical landscapes, GoGo Penguin is sure to remain at the forefront of the genre, inspiring audiences and fellow musicians alike.
📸📝 @cíarahillyer
Role: I’m a professional photographer and I love using both digital and film formats.
Qualification: I have two university degrees in photography from UWE in Bristol, BA (hons) and a Master’s.
Available for: Gig shoots, festival shoots, portrait photoshoots, album and single cover shoots and behind the scenes photography.
First attended gig: When I was at school, we had an evening called “Bands Night”. At the ages of 14/15, quite a few of my friends were in a band, playing the drums, guitar and vocals. I would always go and support these nights as I was their biggest fan, but also because staying out until 9:30pm on a school night was wild. These are the earliest gigs I can remember and I remember them so fondly.
First gig shot: BAD SOUNDS! What an impressive show it was.
Dream gig: Heavy question. There are so many and I feel very lucky to have already photographed the likes of Self-Esteem and Arlo Parks. Photographing a Prince concert would have been magic. Right now, I’ll say that photographing U2, during an intimate performance somewhere in Ireland would be more than a dream come true.”
