Not a drum-kit in sight tonight as three individuals make up the bill at The Deaf Institute for a night of acoustic goodness, with an eye firmly away from run of the mill.
JAMES KELLY commands attention through a set of guitar mastery. Surreptitiously creating loops with his foot behind a guitar case, the main focus is on the finger-work. He’s one of those musicians who create a spectacle just out of being good at what they do, often turning what could be a straightforward ballad into a frenetic guitar-wank that leaves the gathering audience mesmerized (he even generates an audible groan when he announces his final song). More picks per second than I’ve seen in a long time.
With such an artist, sometimes the vocals get in the way, but some of the more searing moments complement intricate guitar parts perfectly. The talent here is unquestioned, and Kelly is someone people will be itching to tell their muso friends about.
JO ROSE is a delicate thing, pouting into the crowd and looking all coy. He pulls off shyness whilst being thoroughly comfortable in his own skin at the same time. During the high points there are elements of Neil Young and Elliott Smith, heartfelt and rather exposed. One or two moments evoke memories more of David Gray and Turin Brakes, but there’s no denying the strong musicianship on display. He’s an accomplished guitarist and pianist, generating real emotion during some of the slower moments. The songs are soothing at times and sweet at others. His reward is a rapturous response which clearly leaves him pleased, and it’s a well-deserved reaction.
Bandless tonight, KID HARPOON can put on more than enough of a show on his own. Having only encountered the first two EPs, tonight was a set of largely new numbers for me, with many moments showing instant promise. Leaping about like an London Underground busker, he provides a lively performance with a series of catchy tunes from his forthcoming debut album.
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The Kid Harpoon sound is that of the acoustic singer songwriter, but it stands out with the sense of foreboding that runs through all the songs, whilst still remaining totally affable. His songs are personal but not self-indulgent tales from (usually) the bad moments of a relationship, things you can relate to. It’s the personality and the personal nature of the set that makes him stand out when compared to the thousands of other acoustic troubadours that play venues similar to this every night of the week.
Further marks go for speaking up in the first song when his guitar was completely out of tune. He spoke through the instrumental part about his predicament of being obviously out of tune mid-song, and not knowing what to do. For a critic, it turns a potential criticism into a talking point, leaving just the one gripe; half an hour simply wasn’t enough.
Three affable blokes, and three noteworthy musicians for different reasons. A great line-up well received.
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