We have a date 21st June. That means another ten or so gigs that will either be cancelled or postponed some for the third time. So cautious optimism is the watch word here. Given that the summer months are usually a little quieter the autumn could be crazy for gigs if things get back to normal. So with everything crossed let’s hope there is real light at the end of this horribly long tunnel.
When I first started this little exercise we were a month into lockdown on the 24th April. Like most of you I expected this to last a month or two. The reality now is clear and sadly it will be a full twelve months and probably a lot more between my last gig and the next one. We go again and hopefully this brings back memories for my gig going chums who have joined me on this great musical journey down the years.
Three corkers today for my look back down memory lane.
2018, the Hold Steady, Electric Ballroom, London
It’s the Hold Steady again, this time an anniversary show celebrating the masterpiece that is ‘Boys and Girls in America’. Big turnout for our group and we weren’t disappointed with this show that was reviewed here at the time. You can always rely on these boys to give you a good time. Not quite the intensity of those first shows but great stuff none the less.
2009, John Legend, Brixton Academy, London
I am not sure what Legend was up to before coming on stage but let’s just say he seemed very pleased to be there and I’m sure he was glad there’s a good deal of Lycra in his trousers.
This would have been the ‘Evolver’ tour and I have to say those first three albums of his are superb modern soul. Often dismissed as being a bit lightweight and I think some of his recent offerings do suffer from that but you cannot deny he possesses a wonderful voice.
A fine show and we were lucky enough to see him again a few months later in Washington.
1992, Southside Johnny, Town & Country, London
An oldie here with Springsteen chums Southside Johnny on what was probably the ‘Better Days’ tour although I notice that their greatest hits album came out this year too. Subsequently the set tonight is a combination of both so what could go wrong. Simple answer nothing. It’s a lovely blend of originals, Springsteen covers and other rock n roll classics.
If you like guitar based rock n roll then Southside Johnny delivers. Nothing specific comes to mind outside of a consistently good show all night. Still going strong and we saw him again about ten years ago too.
That’s it for today so don’t forget, support your small local venues and smaller artists in these difficult times, stay safe and keep on rockin y’all.