‘Sail Away’ rather than that we were blown away by David Gray, this artist is still at the very top of his game, we were treated to two and a quarter hours of musical genius. His stamina was impressive but his voice was more so; the occasional smile delightful.
David and his awesome band were playing firstly songs from his new album “Gold in a Brass Age”. When writing this new material he explored a new and different style, as he said himself rather than composing the music first he wrote the lyrics and then added the score. Simple line drawings are used the back drop for each of these new songs and it worked , contrasting with the highly technical music, the band you could see were concentrating to get the perfect sound and they all managed it.
Highlights of his new album are ‘The Sapling’ and ‘Mallory’ and the song that names the album ‘Gold in a Brass Age”.
Then we were treated to David alone at his piano , a beautiful classic David song ‘The Other Side’ it was absolutely divine, so much so it moved me to tears.
The songs from ‘White Ladder’ went down a treat of course and the crowd went mental. David had always had a loyal discerning fan base and audience, deservedly so, for me Saturday nights gig will stay with me for the rest of my life. I am grateful to have been there and seen one of the worlds best singer songwriters from the last twenty plus years.
A mention must go to the support act. L A Salami , a very cool guy with a great look and even better musicianship with some fabulous story telling lyrics, check him out for yourself sometime.
David’s tour is a sell out I believe but listen to his new album on Spotify or whatever music platform you use.
Words & Photos by Anne Opal