Music Connection Club Reviews by Sam Humphrey

Torie Tyson at Molly Malone's, Los Angeles

Contact:  Jonathan Wolfson at Costa Communications 323-650-3588

The Players:

Torie Tyson, vocals; Alex Kane, guitar; Victor Sanchez, rhythm guitar; Yeah Man, keyboard; Yell, bass; Garner Knutson, drums; Gael MacGregor, background vocals.

Material:

Torie Tyson is a talented singer with strong stage presence and a look that is reminiscent of Debbie Harry. Not surprisingly, her original material is decidedly early Eighties-influenced and is completely counter to the waifs that permeate radio today. Tyson's lyrics are simple and sometimes brash (i.e. "User") and her melodies are catchy if lacking in originality. On songs like "Rock Will Never Let You Down," Tyson has the ability to wake up a room with her high energy and street-tough lyrics.

Musicianship:

This is a tight band and they support Tyson's vocals ably. Knutson, Kane, and Sanchez, along with Yeah Man's fluid keyboard playing and Yell's solid bass work, really grooved on some numbers, especially "Watch Where You Touch." Tyson's voice cut through Molly's muffled sound system with soulful attitude and sensuality. MacGregor's excellent background vocals took a little of the edge off ("You Push Me Down"), and her interaction with Tyson brought some depth to the songs.

Performance:

Torie Tyson is the ultimate bad girl looking for a little fun. She takes command of the stage, teasing and daring her way through her set, eliciting enthusiastic kudos from loyal followers. On "You Are My Baby" Tyson pulled out a whip and, wagging her tongue at the crowd, taunted the audience with one liners like "I don't bite, I just lick." Obviously, Tyson's performance can be campy and over-the-top.

Summary:

Tyson has a big voice and Tina Turner-like energy. Overall, her show is fun to watch, and anyone jonesing for early Eighties-style vocalists need look no further.