Answer: No flippin’ idea mate, ask Warren Ellis.

I have to admit it, Warren makes the kind of music I’m not used to listening to, and it makes a change from the ear-crunching aural assaults I’m used to but..well, it’s just not very inspiring. Stealing a coupla drum loops off of Kid A and looping squiggly violin stabs above them is all very good in some bohemian hovel in Montmartre, but it just doesn’t cut the mustard in these rather more salubrious surroundings.

Cat Power on the other hand fits the grandiose venue to a tee, as a Chan Marshall concert is witnessed rather than watched. Any thought of standing or talking during the performance is quickly put out of the mind as it is feared that Miss Marshall might break down and weep bitter tears. Sitting alone on the stage with only her guitar, piano and unbelievable voice for company, Marshall runs through her heart wrenching back catalogue with an effortless zeal that defies belief. It is as if she’s playing for a close-knit circle of friends, albeit quite a large group of them. The largest applause (shouts and whoops are out of the question) is reserved for her sublime cover of the Rolling Stones classic 'Satisfaction', which adds a bourbon-soaked weariness to the..erm, bourbon-soaked original. Plus I didn’t get Tinnitus! Huzzah!

Review by James Williams
www.catpowermusic.com
www.warrenellis.com

So, is quiet the new loud? No, wait, we've been there before - just talk on the Messageboard