Paris Combo

Melody and harmony are paramount here, even if Paris Combo plays its acoustic instruments — guitar, brushed drums, double bass and piano — with the energy and intensity of an electric outfit.

From the smooth, sexy swing of the marriage-phobic Baguee, through Lewis’s muted trumpet on Tout Excuse and exquisite, flamenco-flavoured solos by gypsy guitarist Potzi, Paris Combo romanced and enchanted as only its namesake city can.

The Spanish influence was heightened on Irenee, complete with castanets, a bullfighting fanfare and audience cries of “Ole!’’

In between, there were groovy ’60s-style psychedelic pop songs, gurgling underwater trumpet solos, tales of hope and obsession, and even a disco finale.

If music be the food of love, then Paris Combo is a banquet !

PATRICK McDONALD, The Advertiser - June 7, 2015 5:28pm