Review by Terresa Allen.

With stockinged feet and song in her heart, Wildflower Music, aka Briony Edgar, guitarist and lead vocalist of the alternative, roots and blues folk duo Salt & Steel indulged fans and friends alike with a beautiful solo set at the bohemian cafe, come live music loving venue Ground ’n’ Sound on the Gold Coast last night.   

The emotive lyrics in these newly penned originals demonstrate a melding of the artist’s introspective insights with the keen sense of observation and connection she has for and to the world around her. Part protest, part prayer the songs of this stripped back acoustic set (even her new pedals weren’t working) showcased the singer’s, songwriting capabilities in a low-key atmosphere, but hid nothing of the underlying power and presence this woman brings to the stage.

Names like Janis Joplin and Joss Stone have been bandied about in conversations I’ve had with people of late regarding the power and soulfulness of Briony’s vocals. Big shoes to fill, or rather not to fill as the case maybe, but backed by influences of some great Australian artists and story tellers – Nick Cave and JBT are sited here, there’s a sense the tales and songs being developed in this solo project will see Wildflower Music blossom into something heartfelt and enduring, flavouring the Australian indie scene with a rawer, edgier folk rock for some time to come.  Keep an ear out for gems like Spider’s Web, Taste my Words and I won’t be Tamed by the Man.

This performance was part of a dedicated Singer Songwriter Night, which occurs once a month at the venue and is just one of the many initiatives by Ground ‘n Sound owners Jake and Jo Lavin to support artists and live music on the Gold Coast. On the bill last night were fellow solo acoustic artists Casey Duque and Queensland based songstress Davina.

If you want to see and hear more of Briony you can catch her as part of Salt & Steel at The Bluesville Happening, Urbenville today or at the other dates on their current Violet Skies Tour.  

To keep up to date with all things Wildflower Music and to stay up to date with Briony’s upcoming live shows, you can follow her on Facebook HERE.

Also – remember to support live music venues too!  Hit the “like” button over at the Ground ‘n’ Sound Facebook Page HERE and get on in to get your fix of tunes and cafe life!