Review: Paul Carrack – The Royal Concert Hall Nottingham

 

From Ace to Squeeze to Mike & the Mechanics, everyone has heard a Paul Carrack song at some time in their life, and on Saturday evening at Nottingham’s Royal Concert Hall, he treated us to some new material in support of his forthcoming album “These Days”, and of course, all the classics.
No fancy set, it just isn’t needed. A beautifully lit stage is effortlessly filled by Paul and his fantastic band. An atmosphere and performance of such quality and sharpness you could close your eyes and easily imagine you are in the studio with them.
The Yorkshire man’s dulcet tones and soulful sounds just prove what the packed Royal Concert Hall already know. He is, without doubt, one of the country’s greatest singer/songwriters.
Paul moves effortlessly between guitar, keyboard, harmonica and of course, those famous vocals.
The new songs are certain to become future classics but, for me, it is Paul’s huge back catalogue which appeals. The fantastic “Tempted” is hugely popular with the audience. Eyes Of Blue is one of my personal favourites. You could almost hear the crowd sigh in appreciation as Paul played the opening cords. Such a beautiful song. A travesty that it doesn’t get more radio airtime.
Everyone can relate to someone in the poignant lyrics of the hit song, The Living Years. The words always sound so much more powerful when played live. Leaving me and my friend with lumps in our throats and tears in our eyes.
A beautiful rendition of Gerry Marsden’s “Don’t Let The Sun Catch You Crying” is another crowd pleaser.
The closing of the show comprising of hits from Paul’s time with the band Ace, along with the Mike & the Mechanics classic “Over Your Shoulder” and Marvin Gaye’s “What’s going on”
A standing ovation thoroughly deserved.
I can’t wait to see Paul perform live again. The question is just…
How Long?

 

Words and photo by Richard Newbold

@Richard_Newbold