I could have just lifted my review from their last show back in 2018 as every word still holds true. If you are looking for a young contemporary blues band then look no further than Larkin Poe. Tonight is their largest headline show and is twice the size of their last London gig. Combining a respect for the bold tradition of the blues with some carefully selected covers coupled with their own fine tunes they are keeping and moving the genre along. Like last time there is an eclectic mix of ages and sexes here and they are also introducing a new younger audience to the blues which is not a bad thing.
These tickets were bought back in 2019 and this date has been pushed twice so it was nice for it to actually happen. Originally this gig was to support their then new album ‘Self Made Man’ and despite two years having flown by this album provides a good section of the tracks on show tonight. The remainder of the set tonight is a perfect blend of oldies, covers and new song ‘Bad Spell’ which to me had a touch of Cream about it with its driving rhythm and guitar sound.
As usual we are treated to the twin axe duel of Rebecca’s Fender against the lap steel of Megan. There is no winner as the two complement each other perfectly and the interplay between the sisters is great with the boys on rhythm providing the foundation for the girls to shine. On top of the musicality, Rebecca’s voice and range is amazing and I was more aware this time of Megan’s harmonies which could have even been a little higher in the mix.
Highlights are tricky in a quality evening but for me ‘Beach Blonde Bottle Blues’ and ‘Wanted Woman’ rock like the proverbial ba$tard. We are even treated to a cameo on guitar from Keith Urban for a guitar solo exchange with Megan.
Despite being quite under the weather with a heavy cold and blocked ear I am glad I made the effort to come out tonight to see this band keeping the blues alive. An excellent show and if you like a bit of blues or rock then check this band out.
Keep on blues rockin’ y’all.