Article: CLIPPERTON SWINGS OUT

Swing Swing, the inaugural release from long-time Toronto indie music sensation R. Kelly Clipperton's new band Kelly & the Kelly Girls, is an eclectic mix of brass arrangements, soulful baritones, theatrical pop and bluesy swing-a welcome change from the one-sound saturation heard continuously on radio stations across the country. "I wanted to develop a different sound," notes Clipperton, "I wanted variance. That sound was a conscious choice that I made not to sound like what's currently on the air waves." "This time I also wanted to focus on my singing and songwriting. My lyrics come from how things personally affect me. Usually my lyrics come first and I build a song around that. What I say is important to me-it's not superfluous pop, there's a message in it. My sense of inspiration comes from everywhere. This album is probably the happiest I've made. Anger fuelled my past releases, but this time you feel an honest sense of happiness that doesn't sound contrived. And the sound of horns makes me happy, and that comes through on the album."

In addition to being a musician-he's released five albums, with now-defunct bands Merkury Burn and My Dear Heretic-Clipperton is also an accomplished photographer, an experienced playwright, an in-demand stylist and has even dabbled in acting. While music remains his true passion, he does bring elements of his various talents into his rock and roll experience. "There is definitely a sense of theatre in my music," remarks Clipperton. "I love dressing-up. I love characters. I really love to engage the audience in my performances. As a stylist, I make sure my hair is perfect. As a photographer, I do my own image control by taking my own shots. I like to control my career as much as possible."
Clipperton's sixth album Swing Swing, released in May 2004, has garnered impressive reviews and broke the top 30 on college radio stations, a milestone he's proud of. But he states he's no-one without his fans and holds a special appreciation for them. "If nobody paid attention, I'd be in my living room playing to myself, which would not be fun for me," he relates. "I know what it's like to be dedicated to an artist, to buy all their CDs and go to their shows. I've been there. When people show that dedication to me, I'm truly flattered. It's a cherished thing I can't take for granted."

Fans were exposed to the Kelly Girls this summer when they toured the Pride Festival circuit in North America. They appeared at a number of events, including Toronto, Cornwall, New York, Los Angeles, and Hamilton. "What it meant in each city was a fascination for me." Clipperton reflects. "It was an incredibly diverse experience. For example, Hamilton had a small town aspect; it wasn't located in a central area. It seemed removed from the city. It was like that in the other smaller towns too. My hope for Pride is to be more integrated into each city." Kelly & the Kelly Girls return to Hamilton this week promising a uniquely entertaining evening. "In addition to clothes coming off here and there," laughs Clipperton, "our sound is refreshing. Stylistically it moves from danceable beats to driving rhythms. Expect an intense, high, and positive energy show." Showtime is 8pm on January 22 at the Staircase Café and Theatre.

The View (Hamilton) JAN 2005 Sarah Cairns