Symphonic metal and jazz music would not usually cross paths very often.
But Waimate singer Suzie Paulin is breaking the mould.
Traditionally a symphonic metal singer, Paulin tried her hand at something different last Saturday when she performed a collection of jazz tunes under the moniker Fallout Girl.
She performed on three Oamaru Steam and Rail train trips – a first at the Harbour Street Jazz and Blues Festival.
Dolled up in a vintage pinup-style dress, Paulin sang and played the flute for various 1940s and 1950s-style songs from the video game Fallout, the inspiration for her name.
“It’s not really my natural style, but it’s nice – it’s fun being a character other than myself,” Paulin said.
Entertaining passengers on a train was also a new experience. It was her first time performing at the festival and, while she was worried about a bumpy ride in high heels, it was a fantastic experience.
“It’s actually been really fun. It’s a lot more relaxed atmosphere than I was expecting. Everyone’s really nice – there’s been a great response and a lot of clapping.”
She also performed at Shortblack Cafe on Sunday, and at Oamaru rest-homes.
The Fallout Girl character was created specifically for the festival, as she was “roped” into performing by a family member on the organisingcommittee.
Trying her hand at jazz had been great experience – she had a background in flute from high school – and there was a possibility she would bring Fallout Girl back in the future.
