Nikki Ngatai's Musical Affair

Nikki Ngatai and her "Musical Affair" drew a capacity crowd at Charlie Farley's last Friday night. Having been promised new originals, intriguing covers and a few surprises, the packed bar was not disappointed. With Sean Higham and Miles Gillett grooving on bass and drums, the evening's entertainment got off to a unexpected start with Sarah Moate's free-style rap, which eased seamlessly into Nikki's stripped bare interpretation of Missy Higgins' Secret. With friend and fellow Swoon band member Gina Higham on backing vocals it was obvious that both Nikki's and Gina's voices have matured considerably. Each singer's voice is individual, unique and dynamic, yet in combination it's as though they're one voice, perfectly complimenting each other. In true Nikki style, after only a handful of songs she put Gina front of stage who played a few of her own songs with Nikki on backing vocals. Nikki's ever-popular singalong Get A Life was next followed by special guest artist, the award-winning Ian Simpson. Part two of the evening was what a lot of people had come to hear, a selection of Nikki's new material. It's clear that both her performance style and songwriting skills have come a long way since I first saw her down at the Sandbar about three years ago. These are beautifully crafted melodies, delivered with colour and feeling that only a voice as rich and unique as Nikki's could deliver. A Musical Affair had promised a few surprises and as the pace and volume of the night increased, the dancefloor filled as Lara Lush, in full Ting Tings garb took the stage for a riotous rendition of That's Not My Name. The small stage was literally overflowing when Aaron Carpenter on electric guitar and Lani Lewis on bass joined the crammed corner of Charlie's for a truly rocking and mesmerizing version of The White Stripes' Seven Nation Army, with Nikki temporarily and very convincingly taking over the drumming duties. Any suggestions that Nikki has left Swoon were quickly dispelled as she moved on to bass guitar for the start of a rollicking set from the local rock band that had the dance floor packed. Swoon pumped out several favourites, and debuted their newest number - the irresistibly danceable Release Me , which was written by Nikki, plus a wonderfully energetic cover of Duffy's Mercy. The encores ensued and it seemed as though the packed bar would have been more than happy to keep dancing all night. Nikki "and friends" put on a great show, from mellow and haunting to hard-rocking and everything in between. From stunning originals, to inspired covers and from a solo musician to a whole stage full. Nikki Ngatai's Musical Affair was a top contender for the best night out on Waiheke this winter!