When Tex Perkins grabs hold of the microphone and states, ‘I am Johnny Cash,’ you believe every syllable. Whether you’re a die hard Cash fan or not, the broad appeal of this part concert, part tribute is undeniable, and the Man in Black’s legacy is in very safe hands as The Cruel Sea frontman ably sings through some two dozen of Cash’s signature tunes. With the inclusion of various touching, sometimes funny anecdotes, it’s not long before we feel the pang of loss of one of music’s legends.
The impersonation is uncanny, particularly in Perkins’ vocal stylings. He nails the growl and the passion of Cash. His love for the material is obvious in his energy on stage. It’s hard to believe that he has been doing this for three years.
Opening with what is potentially one of Cash’s most famous tunes, ‘I Walk The Line’ sets the tone for the entire show, as Perkins demonstrates how in fact, Cash did walk the moral line, quite often finding himself on both sides. Indeed, Cash himself once said that he had an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the other.
Supporting Perkins is Rachel Tidd, performing the vocals of Cash’s wife, June Carter. Tidd’s crystal clear voice is strong and beautiful. She provides some lovely harmonies, which when supporting as strong a voice as Perkins, could get lost without an equally strong talent. Their energetic duet, ‘Jackson’ adds some colour and fun to the end of the first half of the show.
The talented onstage band are a force to be reckoned with, simply known as the Tennessee Four, they are fine musicians with a fair dose of talent between them.
Finishing the show with the classic ‘Ring of Fire’ is well worth waiting for. If it’s possible, the energy creeps up a notch or two more for a musically spectacular finish.
There are some spine-tingling moments, particularly the recreation of the now famous Folsom Prison concert. Another highlight was the haunting ‘Were You There,’ in which the harmonies sounded absolutely beautiful.
The sounds of Johnny Cash have been so well recreated, you need to pinch yourself. The impersonation is surreal – it comes not only from the vocals, but the energy. This performance could turn anyone into a Johnny Cash fan.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
The Man in Black
Starring Tex Perkins and Rachel Tidd
With The Tennessee Four (Steve Hadley Musical Director & bass; David Folley, drums; Shane Reilly, guitar; Matt Walker, guitar)
Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne
16 – 21 July
