May 3, 2006
James Jeffrey West
To start off this night we have a solo acoustic set James Jeffrey-West from Oregon, USA. He is playing a few dates in the UK and it is well worth checking out. His mix of subtle emotional acoustic music is really impressive and by using some awe inspiring guitar riffs and simple but sweet lyrics put to practice by his amazing voice and clever vocal patterns, he is a really relaxing and chilled beginning to the night. The quality of his blues influenced songs mixed with his personal and pleasant manner, put the audience at ease and set us up for a good night.
Foncheros
Tonight the line up is slightly different as the bassist is no longer here so guitarist Russ has taken that duty. This however doesn't seem to effect the quality of their performance with the subtle lead guitar and piano undertones mixing well with the jazzy drumming and catchy vocal patterns. Foncheros are such professionals and mix their sound really well, going from chilled out lounge to rock n roll with ease. The soft vocals are mixed with clear and strong harmonies to add that extra power and the trippy break downs and effective build ups give them a great dynamic, which is quickly getting them a reputation as one of the best bands coming out the city.
http://www.myspace.com/foncheros
Nick Mcdonald and his band
To finish the evening we have Nick Mcdonald with his band mixing old school funk with a extremely soulful edge. Nick is the centre of attention on his piano and with the lead vocals, whilst the other helped to give the songs more energy and power. The trumpet was fairly dominant and seemed amazingly talented, even if he looked almost disappointed in his performance! The guitar work was very clever and well calculated, almost going unnoticed but still being a most intricate part of the band. There was a real jamming flow to the songs and with the strong rock under current it mixed the chilled and relaxed dynamic with soulful, funky rock. For some of the softer songs a cello took the stage and even though the songs sounded good with the piano, vocal and cello mixing together well, the other band members became redundant and looked a bit out of place. The band however all showed masses of talent and rocked the evening to an end. All these bands are well worth checking out.
Reviewed by: Steph
