Talent and wit worth putting on the record

By Joe Nawaz – 18 October 2011

Pat Dam Smyth - Oh Yeah Music Centre

“Let’s do the show right here!” may have a familiar ring for those of you who remember the mindless enthusiasm of the kids from Fame.

But “let’s record the album on the spot” may soon be the new call for aspiring artists. If local troubadour Pat Dam Smyth’s stab at a live album on Saturday night is anything to go by, it might even become the latest spectator sport.

The Oh Yeah Music Centre is carefully set up with candelabra, subtle lighting and strong coffee for Smyth’s attempt at a play-as-you-go follow-up to his raucous Great Divide album.

The concept of this project is time. “And it’s time that I began,” says the talented Mr Smyth before launching into first song, The Clock.

All the while producer Barrett Lahey is in a room upstairs, recording every scratch, sniffle and slurp emanating from the room.

A charming Smyth chats throughout, explaining each song and making everybody feel that they're hanging out in his living room.

Overall, a brief but interesting evening of some warmth, wit and musical grace.