Diva Sheba
Album Release Show Review

26 November 2008

Sheba, SF Bathhouse, reviewed by Janina Nicoll,
Capital Times, Wellington

SHEBA is a diva, in the good sense of the word.
The eclectic soul, funk, afro-beat flavour of her band, The Afro Bombastic Orchestra, hit you as you ascended the stairs, creating anticipation in characteristic San Francisco Bathhouse fashion.
And then there she was. Sheba, a strong, charismatic performer, egging the packed crowd on in any one of the many languages she can speak. And you couldn’t help but smile.
It was glitter, glam, gorgeous lights and a good mix from the sound desk. The striking image of Sheba strutting her stuff onstage in a high cut leopard print leotard, red gown and characteristic shaven head was engaging. Just what outfit was she going to appear in next?
Backed by her technically impressive band, Sheba’s album release show, complete with old movie images on the big screen, an onstage photographer and friendly banter, created the multimedia spectacle she wished to achieve.
The mix was natural but energising, evoking a cabaret, with solos by proficient guitarist Justin Firefly, and rhythmic outbursts from the tight horn section.
Sheba, born in New Zealand to a Guyanese storyteller, knows how to work a crowd, pull a crowd and style herself, and with the help of fashion designer Lela Jacobs, Sheba is a natural showgirl born to make you smile.