Ed Barnes ‘Criticise the Poor’ at Frankie's Pizza 19th March 2022
REVIEW AND PHOTOS BY: JADE GUIDA
Photo By Jade Guida
This release is a long time coming for Sydney Local musician Ed Barnes. Ed, at the very best of times is politically enthusiastic. Ed is brilliant at picking a part an idea or concept and mapping out the injustice. Given the political climate of the last two years, he has had a lot of ammunition. When Ed first lifted the veil on his debut single and revealed the gem the is “Criticise the Poor”, I had a real moment of appreciation for his ability to communicate the frustration of nation through music. Ed has taken the feeling of many Australians, the frustration, the betrayal, and the anger of our country and turned it in to a catchy, cathartic and well directed song. Personally, all my favorite musicians have something to say. I think that is one of the most admirable things about Ed as a musician, he has something to say and shows absolutely no signs keeping quiet. His release “Criticise the Poor” is poignant and eloquent. The nice thing about the song is that is honest and raw. Ed Barnes has something to say, and he wants to make sure you are listening. With his quick-witted lyrics and his ability to write a punchy tune Ed has cemented his song in the hearts of all those who have pulled the political veil back.
The accompanying video is something else. Really. I can barely explain it and don’t even want to ruin it for anyone who has checked it out. There is dancing. Not regular dancing. Peter Garret but more enthusiastic dancing. I know you think it’s not possible, but I assure you, it is. The video also features some rather direct jabs at PM Scott Morrison with some creative sign work displayed around the Sydney. It is a creative video, and I would expect nothing less from Ed Barnes. The video has a really 90s to 2000s feel, it has that typical handheld camcorder washed out colour palette and that almost nostalgic slow motion, wide angle shooting style.
I was lucky enough to catch Ed’s performance at Frankies on Saturday. This was an interesting show, it was a full band set and had quite a punk edge to the sound and feel. I was unsure how the songs would translate, which is probably a poor reflection on me. Everything Ed does, he gives his time and energy and so naturally it was brilliant. The crowd was engaged, dancing, I saw quite a few people singing along. The room was full. I think this is quite a sign of the impact of Ed as a person and musician. Ed is extremely likeable, even when presenting an unpalatable topic, I think this is his greatest power and why I admire him so much. Ed could sit on a balcony, stand on a stage, hand flyers out in front of a church or Scientology, or Hang a hundred signs directly targeting the injustice of our nations leader and still be the most likeable, well-spoken person in the room. Ed is Folk musician with his roots and heart in punk, I don’t think you could find a more honest and direct performer in New South Wales.
