We have a date 21st June for normality we hope and the end of socially distancing at a gig. 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 today for my look back down memory lane.
2012, the Shins, the Forum, London
Specialising in intelligent power pop James Mercer and chums, and for this tour new chums as he has essentially replaced the whole band, The Shins make a very rare trip across the pond.
I was slightly obsessed when ‘Chutes too Narrow’ came out in 2003 and was hoping for plenty from this one. I wasn’t disappointed with four from here and the same from their other two albums before plenty off the current record ‘Port of Morrow’.
I have no reference point on any differences between this and their previous incarnation but these guys do a stand up job supporting the main man. There’s plenty of energy and rock out moments coupled with a few acoustic interludes too.
No real stand out moments for me just a good solid gig.
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.