Archangel Gabrels
It's a rare thing when you go to a gig and get rather more than you bargained for. Its Wednesday night and I'm at the Night and Day Cafe in Manchester's ever popular Oldham St. Turning up at 7.30 was a tad early, however I'm glad I did as the bar quickly fills with people half my age. If you have never been to the venue, its a long room dominated my a very busy looking and well stocked bar, and a small but adequate stage occupying the rear of the room.
The first act to grace the stage are a young band called Louie Louie. Half way through the set it becomes very apparent that they have definitely done this before. Great tunes skilfully played and vocally enhanced by the beautiful Rita. Catch these when they are next in town.
Next up we have Lisa Ronson, with her guitarist Paul Cuddeford and... well that's it. It's fair to say that we have had a fair amount of new act gracing the stages recently as a twosome, none of which I might add float my boat, but Lisa soon proves that its a wise choice.
Her emotion filled performance and powerful voice together with Paul's superb guitar playing prove a hit with the audience. And its not surprising given her musical upbringing. Another one that should be added to your 'bands to see' list.
The last time I saw Reeves live was in 1991 at the Manchester International 2 with David Bowie's side project Tin Machine. Tonight's Reeves is accompanied by bass player Kevin Hornback and Drummer Marc Pisapia. And what a stunning performance it is.
Its no wonder that Bowie and the Cure call on the services of this wonderfully talented guitarist. I used to roadie for a band some years ago, and the guitarist made a point of doing super long solos that sometimes really didn't make much sense or really belong in the song. Tonight's performance shows how it should be done. Effortless but well executed. Its a fine performance that leaves you wanting more and more.
To be honest I had no idea what to expect from tonight. But as I stated earlier I definitely got more that I bargained for. A great nights entertainment, rounded of with a true guitar legend.
Loz
