Leather Lungs: Higher Love

The average male singing voice spans just over two octaves, but Jason Chasland has no average voice. At four octaves Jason, or ‘leather lungs’, joins the illustrious company of Freddie Mercury and David Bowie and proceeds to make the stage his own!

Leather Lungs: Higher Love is one man’s journey out of a domestic violence relationship with the love and support of his family. Don’t be fooled into thinking this production is maudlin, it’s anything but! Jason is not a victim, but a triumphant survivor and his show is a celebration of love, family and joy.

With just a table, stool, and microphone, Chasland, in an open hoop skirt decked with butterflies, sequin encrusted dress and multi-coloured pastel wig takes us on a gender bending trip dotted with hysterical situations, some massive bumps in the road and an ability to find positivity, all wrapped in an amazing voice covering many vocal styles.

As Chasland himself says, “For me, this show is about a rebirthing of Leather Lungs and simply acknowledging where I’m at in my life: facing trauma, sure, but laying on buckets of comedy. A lot of the themes are universal, and I believe the show is going to be special to a lot of people. Lots of heartfelt moments, but always some naughty ones too!”

Chasland’s ability to relate to his audience and build his show accordingly draws us in and we quickly become part of his story.

The moments of high energy are beautifully contrasted with still moments in a spotlight. ‘I Need Your Love’ beautifully segues into a hilarious version of ‘Old MacDonald Had a Farm’, complete with bawdy animal calls.

I particularly enjoyed ‘Do You Believe In Love?’, Chasland’s acknowledgement to himself for having the courage to endure, end and emerge victorious from a traumatic relationship.

Other highlights include ‘The Winner Takes It All’, ‘Chain of Fools’ and of course, “I Will Survive”, delivered in styles ranging from jazz to hard rock.

Don’t settle for watching The Voice on your television screens, get out and see the real ‘Voice’, live in Leather Lungs: Higher Love. you won’t be sorry!

Barry Hill OAM

Photographer: Matto Lucas.