REVIEW of Elliots Crazy Compass gig 18.01.2024 at Juttutupa, Helsinki
verdict: five by five
I must begin with applause for truly great musicianship. These guys: Joakim, Henrikki, Pontus and Sam know what they’re doing. Reading about them I discovered it’s no wonder, they’ve been playing together in different groups since the 90’s (Eternal Erection …). Hats off also to the FOH (soundguy). It’s hard enough to mix a 4 piece band with guitars, bass, vocals and drums. Here he had to not only mix guitar but also; backing tracks, multiple synths, drum samples, electric & double bass, vocals, vocal FX and drums.
Sounded full and fantastic for an old stonewalled pub.
The 2 sets of music was a mix of pop-rock-disco-jazz-fusion-80’s synthwave. All originals. Like Steely Dan meets Talking Heads with Prince popping in on vocals. Especially “Horizon”, “Pacific” “Monster”, “Shoot the messenger” and “I want to kiss you on the lips” deserves an extra mention for awesomeness.
Rhythm section keeps a steady funk beat whilst Sam sings and plays on multiple keys at the same time. His voice has an amazing range from deep bass to hi falsetto and purer than most. Definitely no need for auto tuning with this guy. Fenomenal. The guitarist paints a wonderful wall of atmospheric soundscapes and throws in an occasional solo here and there.
Bloody brilliant!
Some criticism though. Even if the playing and sounds were epic they left me hungry for a more visual show to match the music. This could of course be blamed on the venue with its antique interior and lighting resemblant to when the night is over and it is past last call.
Looking forward and can’t wait for their next gig
/JF