Barry Morgan Unleashes His Organ

To launch his debut album of songs to schmooze, smooch or dribble syrup to, The Touch of You, Barry Morgan presents an exciting show playing tracks off his new album as well as showcasing some of his favourite organs. If his safari suit doesn't win you over, his smooth-as-butter patter is sure to finish the job.

Barry, who would be the organ greats of yore, to your mind?
Well there's the exciting Jonny Dupont – I love his record. Jimmy Smith – the ultimate jazz organist – Barry Hall (a great inspiration and friend of mine from Adelaide), and I can't forget Klaus Wunderlich and his classic pop selection on vinyl. My favourite YouTube clip would be have to be my new video clip 'Barry's Big Bossa'. You get to see the lovely twin leslie Speakers and the Spinning Horn. There is a lovely dancing couple and I get to have a dance too. (See below.)

Our readers may be more accustomed to sticky carpet gigs. What should one wear when attending an evening of gentle organ whimsy and what’s the general etiquette for an audience member?
It's a good idea to sip on a Campari when attending one of my organ demonstrations. I can recommend wearing a sanforised outfit from Martin Menswear in the Sunnyside Mall here in Adelaide. And they have a great special this month on 100% polyester safari suits, which satorially minded, stylish fans can purchase in an eye-catching range of colours and prints. So do your best to look sharp I’d say! There's audience participation too. I always include a one-finger method lesson, and when Barry says "Morgan" you say "organ". Depending on how many Camparis are consumed there might be a little sing a along.

If, as Santana once said, playing guitar is like making love to a beautiful woman, what would playing an organ be?
I’d say playing the organ is like riding pony bareback with your loved one clinging to your torso at a medium-paced canter across the great divide! I think everyone can benefit from having an organ in their life. It's a great way of meeting and connecting with people. There is a world of organs out there waiting for anyone who wants to get involved. My organ playing has taken me to such diverse places from the old folks' home at Oodnadatta to Homebake Festival in Sydney.

You’re a regular of the festival circuit, yet this is your debut album. Can you tell us a bit about The Touch of You?
Well, it's a dedication to the Hammond Aurora Classic – the ultimate spinet organ. It contains some fine compositions by one of Australia’s littlest known composers: myself! There is a big bossanova to listen to, a fine hard rock number, some exotic tango music and a particularly enticing number for you swingers out there – 'Let’s Go Let’s Swing!'.