With the country still in the midst of lockdown and no sign of any live music in the foreseeable future if at all this year I thought I would take the opportunity to look back in the archives, sounds posh I know but it’s just an spreadsheet, and revisit gigs I attended on this day down the years. I will keep this going until I can attend my first gig again in person so hopefully this also brings back memories for my gig going chums who have joined me on this great musical journey down the years.
Just a couple today for my trip along memory lane for you down the years.
1987, Peter Gabriel, Earls Court, London
We are going way back for this one. John, Graham and I visit the behemoth that is Earls Court. Our seats are Ok but not spectacular and we are about half way back. This would have been the tour supporting his mega album ‘So’ and of course the set takes in most of it but there is more than enough space for all the ‘hits’ form the previous three albums.
Gabriel hasn’t lost any of his theatrics he nurtured during his Genesis days although not in respect of outrageous costumes but just the way the show was minimally lit. He also placed his trust in the audience’s hands as he stands at the front of the stage, turns his backs and falls into welcoming arms and he is then transported around the crowd.
The show is faultless, the songs are superb, the band are on point and of course Gabriel’s voice is perfect. I defy anyone not to have a tear in their eye on set closer Biko. It’s a moving song but Gabriel’s emotional delivery elevates its impact even more. Simply stunning
2018, Cordovas, the Borderline, London
This gig was reviewed at the time here and there’s probably little to add. Graham joined me for this evening of very fine guitar based rock music a what was my favourite small venue in London even if the makeover did take away some of its history and heritage.
That’s it for today’s trip down memory lane. Here’s hoping we can get to some form of normality soon. Support your small local venues and smaller artists in these difficult times, stay safe and keep on rockin y’all.