The poetry and music of Leonard Cohen are brought to life by world-class singer Sylvia Cornes.
Sylvia’s resonant voice flows like water. The heartbreaking lyrics of Cohen's most loved classics pool at the audience's feet and drip with love and loss. The effect is truly immersive.
Sylvia is more than ably accompanied by guitarist Henry Clarke. Henry provides the evening’s depth of rhythm through his versatile guitar styles, as well as a Cohen-worthy voice to some songs.
A stand-out performance is given by violinist and vocalist Emily Gelineau. Her soprano is the perfect foil to Sylvia’s alto and her violin is like an additional voice to the group. The double-stop used in Who Shall I Say Is Calling is magical. Clearly multi-talented, her xylophone skills are also on display.
The audience is treated to a mix of Cohen's mainstays, both spoken poetry and sung lyrics. The way Sylvia has arranged the items is masterful, perhaps best on show with the blending of Waiting for Marianne and Bird On a Wire. Or maybe it’s in the seamless combination of A Thousand Kisses Deep with the dark Famous Blue Raincoat. The latter is where the name of the show is hidden, Sincerely, L Cohen.
The song commonly known as Everybody Knows but actually called In My Secret Life is also a stealthy, impactful standout piece. Yet another ‘character’ in the evening performance is the majestic Moana Hall. A Perth “hidden gem” venue that has lived multiple lives and now hosts events like this, providing a unique atmosphere.
Perth artist Sylvia Cornes is a true talent, deserving of the affection shown by the audience of music and art lovers in WA.
The remaining tickets to this event will be snapped up as word spreads. And yes, don’t worry, the most popular Cohen song is included, Hallelujah!