Hear their sparks fly

QUARK, not the fundamental constituent of matter, but a group of Durban-based musicians, will be performing at the Music Kitchen in Newton Park tonight at 8pm.

With a name chosen for its quirkiness, Quark's creative sound, which the group described as "twisted folk with a Celtic edge" draws its influences from the band's hugely diverse musical experiences in folk, rock and jazz.

The three band members who make up Quark are Ant Cawthorn-Blazeby (violin), Dan Wilson (bass) and Fiona Tozer (guitar and vocals).

Tozer said the seasoned performers, who were busy touring South Africa, saw it as a chance to experiment and step outside their comfort zone.

Tozer said "the sheer range of influences that we bring to our music and, the fact that we are all prepared to try something radically different", gave Quark its unique sound.

The trio have all had individual success in their careers, which accounts for the diverse sound they create.

Wilson was nominated for a Sama for best jazz album in 2006, while Cawthorn-Blazeby was a member of the band Landscape Prayers from 1995 to 2003 and Tozer has played at many national music festivals.

Quark play their own compositions, fusing Celtic melodies, tight guitar work and a solid bass groove with thought-provoking lyrics.

Tonight's performance will feature a few new songs, as well as some of the band's older work.

Tozer said "something sparked," when the band came together.

The band members, who have worked together over the years at local events and festivals such as Splashy Fen, White Mountain, and Poets' Porch, recently made the decision to commit and come together as a band.

The band is looking forward to their performance in the Bay.

"I love playing in PE, I used to come down for the festivals ... the audiences were always so nice and I am really looking forward to being back," Tozer said.

ý Tickets are R60 per person and will be sold at the door.

For further information contact Alasdair Gillies on 083-656-1166.