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.
Just the one for Paddy’s Day for my look back down memory lane.
2014, Imelda May, Roundhouse, London
It’s probably fitting that we are seeing an Irish act on their holiest of days in North London. May was still riding the Rockabilly wave with her husband at that time. Both of which she has now ditched. My abiding memory of her husband is the guitars he had. All things of beauty especially the Gibson Switch master and his large Gretsch. Great guitars and great sound.
The set is back alley brick work covered in Graffiti and fills the stage and the band are full on rockabilly with quiffs, classic guitar, double bass, that great staccato drum sound and all. We are then treated to two hours of good time fun with a nice blend of styles from jazz tinged chanteuse through to full on ‘billy with of course some traditional Irish folk for good measure. To further highlight those Irish roots John Sheehan from the Dubliners comes on stage for a number or two.
Set closes with arguably her best dance along song ‘Johnny got a Boom Boom’ and then the encore has a couple of good covers of Blondie’s ‘Dreaming’ and ‘Tainted Love’. Good time music.
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.