Unique jazz and folk duo Sean Frenette and Lindsey Stormo performed an out-of-this-world set at the Todd Lecture hall on Thursday, October 4.
The duo, based out of Portland, brings a mesmerizing blend of old school jazz and modern folk to the table. Frenette and Stormo created raw emotion using only guitars and voice.
Most of their songs showcased guitarist Sean Frenette’s complicated song crafting and Lindsey Stormo’s well-trained voice.
Frenette had a power to create melodies that would grab the audience’s attention. He passionately moved his fingers along the neck of his guitar creating waves of euphoric sound.
Stormo’s singing ability created poetry in motion. Her voice was powerful yet calming, leaving her audience in a relaxed and wondrous state. Her creative singing style could even be compared to recording artist Bjork.
“My biggest influences would have to be Ella Fitzgerald and Bjork,” Stormo said. “We also like bands like the Cowboy Junkies.”
The duo even played covers of songs from such artists as Cowboy Junkies and Bjork, adding their own style and sound to the songs.
Their overall sound could be compared to many other “coffee shop” acts. They had a sense of tradition Indian style music as well as an influence from Irish folk music.
Between songs, Stormo recited poetry as Frenette readied his guitar for the next act. Her poetry was very strong and emotional. She was a powerful speaker and left the audience inspired and humbled through her message. Most of their pieces were for a more mellow audience.
At one point during the show, Frenette created an impromptu song by himself, orchestrating an array of synchronized sounds, using just a guitar and a multiple channel loop pedal.
Their performance brought forth a feeling of spirituality to the room. Stormo and Frenette were both very serious towards their work. Their music not only created peace and nirvana for themselves, but also for the entire audience.
“What inspires me?” says Stormo. “The divine constantly allowing me and others to open our hearts through music.”
Stormo connected with her audience by telling stories of how they met and what the songs meant to them.
Both Frenette and Stormo attended highly-sought-after music schools and are well-trained to teach and play music. They have performed in many famous venues including Carnegie Hall.
