Carl Orr
(606 Membership. 22 August 2023. Dwell assessment and pictures by photographer John McGloin)

Guitarist Carl Orr’s gig on the 606 on 22 August marking his farewell to the UK, had attracted a full home 606 membership. The band – with Laurence Cottle (bass), Tomasz Bura (piano and keys), and Francesco Mendolia (drums ) – assembled, and we had been greeted by Carl on the microphone, fully deadpan: “Thanks for coming. One other bloody boring Tuesday evening,” earlier than launching into a quick and livid “A Acquainted Approach”.

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There have been loads of modifications of tempo and temper within the first half: “Katie”, devoted by Orr to his daughter, was a a lot slower, introspective and moody piece that featured Orr’s guitar extensively. Because the night progressed we gained a broader image of the musician we’re about to lose – London’s loss is certainly Adelaide’s achieve. “Spare Room” was impressed by his children leaving residence for college. “Isaac and Dad” was devoted to his father and his friendship with a disabled younger man who he used to go to.

Orr spoke of this being an enormous second in his life. In the course of the chat, Cottle performed a burst of “Spanish Flea” resulting in puzzlement and laughter inflicting Orr to remark: “Mahavishnu Herb Alpert Spanish Flea”. When you let fusion take maintain, it actually can take you anyplace.

Cottle and Mendolia proved to be such a dynamic rhythm part. Rock strong behind guitar and keys, additionally they offered momentum and drive for the faster-paced numbers.

Chatting briefly to Carl Orr afterwards on what was such a becoming goodbye, it was clear he was going to overlook his residence in England. Equally, he’s wanting ahead to life in his new residence in Adelaide. Australia may be very lucky to have Carl again once more. We want him all the easiest for his transfer to Oz.