Live at
The Torrington, Finchley,
Sunday 9th November 2003
On a chilly Sunday evening, I’d like to report being thoroughly entertained by so many musicians, my barely readable notes probably won’t do them justice.
Proceedings started with the twin guitar attack of Jules Fothergill and Tim O’Sullivan producing some terrific rocking blues, ably assisted by Nick Townsend and Roger Hunt on funky bass and drums respectively. Their three numbers highlighted the extensive talents of both guitarists and Jules on vocals, particularly during an uplifting “Turn On Your Love Light”.
Jim Faupel followed with some cracking slide guitar and his own distinct vocals during a handful of numbers, including “I’m Worried”, the walking blues of Homesick James on “She’s Got To Move” and “Little Red Rooster”, which proved particularly popular with the audience.
Canadian guitarist Jimmy C was next up and, as usual, putting a smile on everyone’s faces, again featuring Tim O’Sullivan, as well as Jez Guest on sax and Ivan Hoe on drums. “Crossroad Boogie” got the toes tapping, before “I Can’t Quit You Baby” slowed proceedings down with some true blues. A brilliant version of “Tore Down” really jumped, finishing with a series of five-second solos from each of the main musicians that left the crowd quite breathless.
Damien McCabe then took a slot, backed by the solid bass of Bill Hobley and precision drumming from newcomer James Cook. Damien, as always, dragged every ounce of emotion from his material, highlighted on “Crosscut Saw”, much to the crowd’s delight.
Finally, Roadhouse treated us to a fine selection of their newer material, featuring Gary Boner’s jangling guitar and moody singing on “I Couldn’t Get To Sleep”, Anne Campbell’s sultry vocals on “Brooklyn Blues” and the rocking finale of “No Place To Hide”.
Variety, top-drawer musicianship and hardly any breaks made this a great start to my week. This is certainly one club worth joining!
Darrell Parsons - Blues Matters!