Metro Villa transforms a difficult task into an impressive work of art on their EP “Live at the Two …”
Metro Villa embarked on a transformative musical journey during their EP recording “Live at the Two Oceans Aquarium,” turning a daunting task into a stunning work of art. The mastermind behind the concept, aimed to create a unique performance space in front of the I&J Ocean Exhibit, envisaging it as a blank canvas for bands to explore unconventional sonic avenues. Metro Villa, a renowned rock band on the Cape Town music circuit recognized for their dynamic live shows, embraced this challenge with enthusiasm. They saw the chance presented by the event “After Dark” to reinterpret their tracks acoustically, resulting in a meticulously crafted, stripped-down performance captured on film and transformed into an EP.
Kicking off the unforgettable night with an alternate rendition of their well-known track “Michelle,” Metro Villa delved into themes of heartbreak, sorrow, melancholy, and youthful romance, channeling the essence of classic MTV Unplugged sessions. The evening, coinciding with bassist Damon Bendel’s 27th birthday, exuded a serene and concentrated atmosphere. Bendel’s emotional interlude where he expressed his longing for his deceased mother to witness and revel in the moment before soulfully performing “Passing Through” resonated deeply with the audience, evoking audible sobs.
The inclusion of Lost Youth’s Alanna Joy for the final songs injected a fresh vocal dynamic, harmonizing flawlessly with lead singer Cameron Jenkins on “Holy Place,” a tender ballad underscored by a mellow, rhythmic drumbeat, and on “Dark Horse,” an uptempo track that added zest to the performance. The appearance of turtles, a highlight at the shows, elicited enthusiastic applause, with “Bokkie,” a remarkable survivor rehabilitated at the aquarium after sustaining severe injuries, taking center stage. In a touching tribute to her, Metro Villa honored her by incorporating her image into the artwork of their EP.
In conclusion, the EP “Live at the Two Oceans Aquarium” stands out as a remarkable body of work encapsulating the essence of the series over the past four years. A testament to Metro Villa’s creative reinvention and musical prowess, this recording is a captivating listening experience deserving of attention.