Gig Review: Theon Cross at The Bodega

Theon Cross was introduced to the sound of Bass at an early age by his father. A reggae musician who kept a Sound System in the house. Theon started his musical career, learning to play the Tenor Horn at primary school. As he grew up so did his choice of instruments. Once he got to the tuba he says “It felt comfortable, I’d arrived at an instrument that felt like my voice”. He continued his musical education up to degree level at the prestigious Guildhall school of music.

Theon, a member of the excellent, Mercury nominated Sons of Kemet has worked with some of the greats of the London Jazz scene. Including Moses Boyd and Nubya Garcia. Playing his tuba on Moses’ brilliant Dark Matter Album. Theon’s current tour is promoting his new Intra-I album. A heady mix of Jazz, Dub, Hip-hop, Soca and Grime.

He was joined on stage by Chelsea Carmichael on Sax, Nico Ziarkas on guitar and Patrick Boyle on Drums. From the first track it is obvious we are hearing something unique and special. Theon is equally at home stepping out a reggae bass line, improvising a Jazz solo or weaving his lines round the rest of the band. It must be exhausting playing and carrying such a huge instrument but he makes it look easy and sound brilliant.

After about 40 minutes, playing a selection of pieces seamlessly blended together, most of the band leave the stage and Nico solos a piece of screeching, distorted, feedback guitar. Once the band return, its Theon’s turn to dazzle us with his virtuosity. At times the harmonics from the Tuba are astonishing. He explained to me later that he is actually singing at the same time as blowing to create the harmonies. As his solo progresses he leans forward so we are all treated to the direct sound from the Bell of the Tuba, parting the hair of those at the front. It is a testament to their excellent sound engineer that the PA system at the Bodega manages to convey all the depth and nuance of the music, especially the richness of the tuba.

Next, we are treated to Spiral. One of the tracks on Intra-I with vocals. As there is no singer on stage we are all easily persuaded to be replacements. Throughout the set there are times when Theon stops playing, highlighting the other band members. It is only when he isn’t playing that you realise how much of a gap his absence leaves, so you can fully appreciate how much sound he provides with his Tuba. He completes the set with the Dubby reggae of Forward progression II. Theon stepping out an intoxicating bass line. By now, none of the audience are still, everyone bopping away, including the bar staff.

I and many others at the Bodega that evening, hope that he returns soon and intend to be there.

Theon Cross performed at The Bodega on Thursday 27 January.