Adelaide Cabaret Festival: Rock Venus – The Songs of Linda Ronstadt 

ACF Jane Clifton in Rock Venus - The Songs of Linda Ronstadt - photo by Claudio RaschellaWhen it comes to tributes to such iconic singers, I’m always sceptical but willing to be open minded. Aussie singer Jane Clifton’s tribute to the ultimate Rock Venus – Linda Ronstadt surpassed any reservations I had from the first beats of opening song the Stone Poneys’ Different Drum.

Clifton’s voice suits the smooth and sultry beats of each Ronstadt song giving the audience licence to bop, wave and head nod at every opportunity. Between songs we were treated to some Ronstadt trivia and titbits delivered in Clifton’s lively and witty style.

We got an insight into her family history such as her father giving her an 1890’s guitar owned by her grandfather, and how the Eagles started as Ronstadt’s backing band. Clifton’s banter with the audience added a more intimate interaction which suited the performance.

Singing classic covers like Just One Look, Poor Poor Pitiful me, Smokey Robinson’s Tracks Of My Tears, Heat Wave, When Will I Be Loved and the Eagles’ Desperado, Clifton mesmerised the audience, and had them swaying in their seats. The audience listened intently to each song, but the best reaction was reserved for the biggest Ronstadt hits – the smooth and powerful Roy Orbison hit Blue Bayou, and ending with You’re No Good.

For an encore, Clifton sang the beautiful Heart Like a Wheel with excellent harmonies by her backing band, and closed the show with the Buddy Holly classic, That’ll Be The Day. A perfect upbeat send off to remember Linda Ronstadt and Jane Clifton with great affection.

Rock Venus – The Songs of Linda Ronstadt 
Banquet Room – Adelaide Festival Centre, King William Road, Adelaide
Performance: Friday 15 June 2018 – 9.15pm
Information: www.adelaidecabaretfestival.com.au

Image: Jane Clifton in Rock Venus – The Songs of Linda Ronstadt – photo by Claudio Raschella

Review: Anastasia Lambis – courtesy of All About Entertainment