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The Beautiful Losers: Lost aLive at The odeon

Shane Hollands (voice) and Paul Williams (cellotronics), work in the jazz-and-poetry tradition of Kerouac, Ginsberg, Lenny Bruce, the Beat Poets et al, but in a much updated manner. Instead of the horns and rhythm sections of yesteryear, Williams alone creates a sound environment around Hollands' gravel tones, with effects, programming and samples added to his acoustic cello. The duo also combines improvised free form elements with pre-ordained/composed material (both words and music). Some local and Maori references place them firmly in the present, but Hollands' name-checking of Bukowski and others along the way leaves no doubt that, despite their serious intent, The Beautiful Losers are well aware of the rebellion, protest and anarchic humour that is central to this genre. At times, Williams' bowed cello produces ominous sounds that seem to threaten a hapless Hollands, who fights back with inspired verbal riffs. They perform as equal partners, rather than words-with-accompaniment. This is available via
thebeautifullosers@giantrobot.co.nz