With 25 years, a half-dozen albums, uncountable world tours, and a number of successful TV themes under their collective belts, BETTY are an institution of indie music. They’ve cultivated a devoted and passionate fanbase over the years, and their holiday shows in New York City have become something of an annual tradition: old friends and special guests celebrating together with drinks and music, keeping warm and sharing seasonal cheer.
This year’s BETTY Holiday spectacular took place at Joe’s Pub, and the intimate environs made it feel more like a party full of loved ones than a formal performance. The trio of frontwomen (Amy Ziff, Elizabeth Ziff, Alyson Palmer) were in top form, their three-part harmonies filling every corner of the room… The two other members of the group (Tony Salvatore and Mino Gori) added tight and persuasive backing, their guitar and drums providing foundation for the melodies and vocals.
It’s a truly unique sound, like two distinct bands playing together in perfect unison. And the visuals matched nicely– three women standing in spotlights, two other musicians just behind, playing together on the small stage. And the performance was fierce and forceful, barely giving the audience a chance to catch their breath between songs.
The tunes were a mix of BETTY classics and rearranged seasonal selections, all guaranteed to elicit cheers and singsongs from the assembled faithful. And there were surprises: renowned violinist Lyris Hung stepped onstage to play on a couple numbers, and special guest Gloria Steinem performed a new piece (written especially for the occasion) that detailed, in this era of activism, some of the things that we can move on to occupy next.
It seemed to be over far too soon, and despite the space constraints, the gathering of friends danced, drank, and made merry. It was a night of holiday happiness and wonderful music, a fun and festive time for all.
BETTY’s next show is February 16th at 92Y Tribeca. More information and tour dates can be found on their website.
Photos © 2011 Marnie Ann Joyce. Additional photos from this event can be seen here.
