A building that reimagines the role of a live music venue seems the perfect setting for an arts organisation pushing the boundaries of classical music. Tonight, the collaboration is further enhanced by the contribution of South African cellist Abel Selaocoe, an artist who is redefining the parameters of his instrument. As Selaocoe explains, in South Africa mastering ‘Western’ instruments is a form of protest as you can put your culture on top. This layering of cultures, timbres and sounds is evident throughout The Oracle as pieces by Stravinsky, Rameau and Vivaldi sit alongside Selaocoe’s own compositions.
An oracle is a form of divination, providing a message for the wellbeing of the community and there are moments of this programme that are sublime as it explores Afrofuturism. Selaocoe is a hugely engaging performer, conducting the collective and audience with relish. He wrings every nuance from the music as he creates a truly unique sound from his cello, bow whizzing across the instrument in a flurry of horsehair. His singing voice further elevates proceedings, bringing joy and pathos in equal measure, and the added harmonic spectrum of overtone singing. The improvisational skill of Alan Keary (electric bass) and Mohamed Gueye (African percussion) brings the promised giddy joy and chaotic creativity, expanding on the evening’s more recognisable motifs, rhythms and inflections.
The collective are squeezed onto the Future Yard stage as they present these new arrangements and material in this ‘gnarly show’. Their usual verve is evident, and they are clearly enjoying this programme of material, especially the more challenging works. A vociferous audience response at the end leads to an impromptu encore which allows the musicians to demonstrate their connection. The sound quality is excellent, drawing you in to the proceedings and ensuring the blend and balance of the mix of instruments. Usually, the Manchester Collective are illuminated by large vintage lights but at Future Yard these are swapped for the venue’s multi-coloured LEDs. The lighting is evidently responding to the music onstage but at times it overpowers proceedings, vying with the haze machine to have its moment.
The programme is a wonderful mix with seamless transitions between each piece and recognisable fragments reimagined for this unique ensemble. The performers are totally in sync as they explore the euphoric dissonance and rhythmic variations of the repertoire. Selaocoe’s compositions are magical, communicating a connection in everything as he celebrates the joy of childhood or the certainty of faith. Often the audience are invited to participate and do so with relish – as Selaocoe observes ‘we are not in London’. The evening’s youngest fan (a baby in suitably futuristic silver ear defenders) is transfixed, bopping along throughout to everyone’s delight.
Touring until 24th April, https://manchestercollective.co.uk/oracle
Reviewer: Clare Chandler
Reviewed: 31st March 2022
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★