We've noticed a few good gigs coming up - one in particular we think you should check out. It's also a slight rambling about my experiences with the Admiral Bar in Glasgow, Lee Mavers and John Power.
Linking the last two together is of course Liverpool indie heros The La's. Their self-titled album released in 1990 worked it's way up from a regular 'always in my car' album until each of the songs became my favourites in their own right. Ex-frontman Lee Mavers played a free gig in the old Chambre 69 in Glasgow a few years back, and it was definitely a one-time experience. Few people had heard about the event, with only the odd rumours spreading on various websites.
You could tell that everyone who'd travelled down buzzing off the atmosphere; some coming from England as soon as they heard. We met some particular die-hards from Dundee, who looked like they were experiencing 'the' event of their lifetime. They were great, and some laugh in the end. Hi if you're reading and realise I'm talking about you! To be fair it was a brilliant gig, with 'Looking Glass' the absolute highlight, giving nearly everyone in the room a bit of goosebumps.
Lee Mavers, Chambre 69, Glasgow, 2011
So, to last month, when another of The La's integral members, ex-bassist and Cast front-man John Power was to play a gig in the Admiral Bar on Waterloo Street. Lynsey had initially found out about it and bought us two tickets. I was never the biggest Power fan, purely out of lack of exposure. Again though I was treated to an excellent gig and a crowd with all the enthusiasm and respect that you'd find for the artist on stage at any major venue. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere was mirrored from the crowd, to Power through to the guys at the desk selling tickets (they helped us out with a bit of a situation, really genuinely lovely people!).
There was just the right mix of stand out Cast classics and solo material. 'Alright', 'Walkaway' and of course ' Guiding Star' provided a massive sing-a-long, and were definite highlights for sideline fans like me. Strumming through his setlist, eyes were always towards Power, and I particularly enjoyed 'Jumpin Bean' from his 2006 album Willow She Weeps. All round great tunes, and a certain kind of atmosphere which held everyone together in the same mind-set in the Admiral Bar. (Also Murray won his semi-final match that night and we were all pleased about this.)
Anyway this isn't award-winning Youtube footage but if you want to have a watch, they're all here.
Basically, if you're a fan in any capacity you should come along to the gig at Motherwell Theatre on 24th of October. That's really what I'm trying to say. The relatively intimate space (seated) isn't one you would associated with this kind of an event, but it's a perfect opportunity for the venue to prove its worth accommodating smaller acoustic gigs. I think it'll be a brilliant show, with a guaranteed stand-out performance.
Hopefully the extensive Scottish fan-base who were out in force and in high spirits at the Admiral, come down again and show their support!
John Power
Motherwell Theatre
Thurs 24 October, 7.30pm
Tickets £12
Online booking or Box Office 01698 403120
-Kirsty
