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Baz is back
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November 26, 2009
By Kgomotso Moncho
Few music enthusiasts have heard of Baz Corden. But that's not something which bothers the Durban-born singer-songwriter.
"I never really aimed for the spotlight," says the former Pistolfish member.
Discovered by Nibs van der Spuy, and now based in the UK, Corden is returning to South Africa for a national tour.
After playing alongside bands such as Perez, he decided to move in a different direction: "I moved away from the scene and started studying jazz. I hooked up with Nibs and Guy and they were very patient with me. Nibs asked me for some recordings and persuaded me to do an album."
You Are Here was released locally last year and in the UK and European markets in March.
The music has an acoustic guitar as its base, the compositions are simplistic, but with a dreamy/quirky element which is also heart-wrenching.
Van der Spuy is a big fan: "His lyrics bring out those personal demons. He has a knack for looking at issues many won't dare to and his music is powerful."
The song There's a Right Time for Everything was chosen as the soundtrack for T-Mobile television company in Europe. Other tracks have been selected for a National Geographic-sponsored documentary by the Australian film-maker, Beau Miles.
"My songs really have paved the way for some amazing experiences and travel adventures this year.
"It feels like so much has happened, and at the same time, not enough has happened. But, I think that is just me. I have met some really great musicians, but I had a hardcore teething process."
Of his overseas adventure, Corden relates his most bizarre experience:
"I started out at open mic sessions and was lined up to perform with lots of poets and artists.
"The one started out with a nursery rhyme full of propaganda; then there was the Italian poet who recited a workaholic's poem and later stripped naked. That was the weirdest act to follow."
For Guy Buttery, who's been playing music with Corden since the age of 12, one enduring memory remains.
"The last time I saw Baz perform was at a show at the legendary Half Moon club in London. The venue has hosted the likes of The Who, U2, Van Morrison and just about everyone. He came on and charmed us all with his warmth and his wit.
"I remember feeling as if I was comfortably seated in his living room and he had come out just to tell us how he was feeling that day and, more importantly, how he was taking in all his surroundings here on Earth.
"The way he managed to project this into song was probably the most human experience I've ever had at a concert."
Catch Corden at these gigs: Durban: Friday at Vagabond Cafe, December 4 at Luna Lounge. In Cape Town: December 8 at Zula Bar, December 9 at Obz Cafe, December 10 at &Union, December 11 at Melting Pot.
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