Formed in the Blue Mountains, NSW in 2001 by Kiwi spookmeister Stephen Taberner, the Spooky Men describe themselves as a “magnificent many-headed beast turning the world of men’s music upside down and carving new territories of mighty man sounds, exquisite tenderness and charming stupidity to both celebrate masculinity and mock it.” They seem to be one of the few acts that would not be offended to have “nonsense” associated with one of their performances, (manbooferie”?) In an interview, Mr Taberner suggested that, certainly in the early days, the most enjoyable part was the “shuffling around thing” before the actual singing which gave rise to “repartee, the art form of sly commentary, in the moment, a collective witty improvisation. Of all the things I love about the Spooky Men, maybe it’s the repartee I love best.”
On a positive note: they are harmless – “just a bunch of blokes” who will “blow your mind.” Let’s see. Well, the first act opened with the sonorous mighty man tones aforementioned in a beautiful rendition of a song about making a noise to “let you know we are here.” It was soon followed by the heralded song about cleaning up after your breakfast.The songs throughout this half were pleasing in terms of harmony and very rich tones. The audience joined in the singing. The humour in the songs and the introductions was charming but eventually risked becoming a little prosaic. Then came act two.
It was like a different show. The spookmeister, Steve promised – and delivered a “change-up “ with a wonderful featured soloist, Dave, in a captivating love song. This was followed by breathtaking, heartfelt renditions of traditional folk songs and anthems from Georgia and the Ukraine demonstrating a social conscience and more of the choir’s diverse talents at the top end of their range. Indeed their prowess would have made the choirs from Georgia and the Ukraine proud.
Finally, just when you thought you’d seen their full scope, a parting surprise gift; a ‘Spooky’ heroic rendition of a medley from Queen! You got me. Truly memorable.
Editor’s Note : Allan Chapple’s review was of the Spooky Men’s Chorale concert that took place at Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul on the 24th November. This concert was part of the Chorale’s South Coast 2024 tour. Remaining performances are Tuesday 26th at the Yuin Theatre, Bateman’s Bay, Wednesday 27th at the Mudbrick Pavilion, Mallacoota, Thursday 28th at the Twyford, Merimbula, Friday 29th at the Kinema, Narooma, Saturday 30th at the School of Arts, Cobargo, December 1 at the CommunityCentre, Huskisson.
