Concert Review: La Rosa, Victoria, BC
Mothers Day Issue, May 8, 1994

Alice Di Micele: Go Ahead and Make a Change

By Goyo de la Rosa

It was a glorious spring day when I first heard the joy and healing in the music of Alice Di Micele. Alison Spriggs, office manager of the Bastion Square WCWC office in Victoria, was driving us back into town. We had just done an interview on CFUV's Artlet ("Paste-up Radio Show") having to do with eco-forestry and the Vancouver Island Conservation Vision, so her introducing me to Alice's "Make A Change" tape was entirely appropriate.

This strong solo singer who accompanies herself on acoustic guitar deserves wider exposure. The night before, she had performed for a small but appreciative audience on Salt Spring Island, an dwas scheduled to play later that night at Java in Victoria. On the strength of that short listen in Alison's van, I had determined to hear Alice at Java. So, after my usual Friday night men's group meeting, I brought three other fellows downtown to hear this post-modern troubadour.

These days, many singers sing of Mother Earth, but few do it with the conviction of Alice Di Micele. Alice stands her ground with the great folk singers from south of the border. Joan Baez comes to mind, particularly the early Baez who sang with such strong and gentle voice of social justic and peace issues.

Her tessatura ranges from a deep contralto to a soaring soprano, and applies itself to real melodies with memorable lyrics. That night at Java, none of the guys from my men's group were disappointed, nor was anyone else in that cool space, judging by the brisk sales of tapes that ensued after the show. But, as far as I know, Alice's appearance at Java went unremarked in the aboveground press, which is a shame, but is perhaps after all, understandable. For Alice Di Micele lives the challenge of change implicit in her music, and perhaps that intimidates some not ready for her truth.

I haven't forgotten that night, and thank you, Alice for your 'wonderful life on this planet,' shared with us throught the courage, strength and joy of your music.