About This Footage
The dusty, dimly lit stage of Sterling's Upstairs at The Federal on November 18, 2012. A lone spotlight casts an eerie glow on Elvira Barjau as she takes the microphone, her voice soaring through the intimate space like a whispered secret. This is "Where Do You Start", a rare live performance that captures the essence of a bygone era.
At this point in time, Elvira Barjau was no stranger to the music scene. With her debut album "So This Is Love" having just dropped on iTunes, Amazon, and CDBaby.com, she had already made waves with her soulful voice and poignant songwriting. But it's not just her talent that makes this clip significant – it's the context in which it was filmed. Sterling's Upstairs at The Federal was a legendary venue in North Hollywood, California, known for its rich history of hosting up-and-coming artists.
The fact that Elvira Barjau chose to perform here, surrounded by an all-star ensemble featuring Franz Mehrfert on bass and Arie Salma on piano, speaks volumes about her commitment to her craft. The arrangement is a masterclass in subtle nuance, with each musician bringing their unique voice to the table without overpowering the others. It's a testament to Elvira's ability to collaborate and create something truly special.
The song itself, "Where Do You Start", is a poignant ballad that showcases Elvira's emotional range. Written by Alan and Marilyn Bergman (of "The Windmills of Your Mind" fame), the lyrics are a heart-wrenching exploration of love, loss, and longing. As Elvira pours her heart out on stage, it's clear that she's not just singing – she's living every word.
What makes this clip truly remarkable is its rarity. With only 3:46 minutes of footage available, it's a fleeting glimpse into the world of 2012's live music scene. But even in its brevity, "Where Do You Start" manages to convey the intimacy and vulnerability that defines Elvira Barjau's artistry.
For those who watch this clip, they'll be transported back to a bygone era – an era of vinyl records, CD players, and cassette tapes. They'll witness a moment in time when music was still raw and unpolished, yet full of life and energy. And as Elvira Barjau's voice soars through the quiet night air, they'll be reminded of the power of live performance to transcend time and space.
This clip is more than just a relic from the past – it's a testament to the enduring spirit of music itself. It reminds us that even in an era dominated by digital streaming and social media, there's still something special about witnessing artistry up close and personal. As we watch Elvira Barjau take the stage at Sterling's Upstairs at The Federal, we're not just seeing a performance – we're experiencing a moment of connection between artist and audience that will stay with us long after the clip ends.
The final notes of "Where Do You Start" fade away, leaving behind an image that lingers in the mind: Elvira Barjau standing alone on stage, her voice echoing through the empty space like a ghostly whisper. It's a haunting reminder of the power of music to transcend time and touch our hearts – even when we're not expecting it.
Curated from public records and music databases.
