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 the one today but what a show for my trip down memory lane for you down the years
2008, Duffy, Somerset House, London
After a stunning debit album Duffy was catapulted into mega stardom with her unique voice. She was soon elevated to large venues like this tonight. Anne and I wandered along to this lovely setting on the banks of the Thames for a pleasant evening of soul. There’s no surprises and it’s all a bit safe. With only one album behind her, that gets played in full and the set was probably flushed out with a cover or two. A nice enough night but doesn’t linger long in the memory.
2012, Dr. John, Under the Bridge, London
However, this gig does linger long in the memory and was happy to share this show with John and Graham. Dr. John was touring on the back of the Dan Auerbach produced album ‘Locked Down’ which brings a slightly more polished heavier rock tinged, commercial sound but not in a bad way to the effervescent Doctor.
This was a highlight from first to last note. I had seen the Doctor a couple of times before but this show really stands out. The band were on fire and the heavier sound really suited them. Mac was on great form, his voice was strong and of course he’s not bad on the keys either.
A super night from Mr Creole who has shuffled off this mortal coil a little while ago.
2014, the Jayhawks, Shepherds Bush Empire, London
Off the bat The Jayhawks are one of my favourite bands from seeing them for the first time supporting Dwight Yoakham in 1992 just after the release of their debut album ‘Hollywood Town Hall’ one of my favourite albums of all time to the release of their new album this year.
I reviewed the gig here in the early days of the blog and what a fine show this was celebrating the reissues of ‘Smile’, ‘Sound of Lies’ and the brilliant ‘Rainy Day Music’. Great band, great show, nuff said
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.