Mostly Autumn - The Stables Wavendon

Our third 'Christmas' at the Stables MK with Mostly Autumn.Does that qualify as a tradition? Well, it does in my book at least. Some things have remained constant during that time too. The roadworks around Newport Pagnell are still a work in progress. Admittedly we did get a bit further this time before finding the exit was closed. At least we got to see the Christmas lights in Moulsoe and Cranfield.Talking of being confused the 'High Viz' Stewards cradle you into a space, as though it were an episode of 'Worlds most dangerous roads'. Inside the 12 seats have all been taken hours ago, and there is a long queue at the bar. Please don't ever change.

Really excited to be seeing MA again though, hearing some of the new songs from the latest 'Seawater' album (Their 15th Studio album). The previous two Christmas concerts have been very special, and a great atmosphere. I get the feeling the band enjoy coming here too. It's a splendid auditorium sound wise, and not a bad seat in the house.  

The obligatory 'Representing'  photo taken for the Marillion fans Facebook page and we are just about ready for the off. I think we are in just about the same seats as last year, on the side stage right as you face it. The lady behind taps me on the shoulder, telling me I used to work with her husband! I tell her that I turned up at least , work might be overdoing it a bit.  
The show begins , some classical music gives way to the opening track from 'Seawater' 'Lets take a walk'. At over nine minutes it canters along like a thoroughbred racehorse. We also have 'Winter Dreaming' a 'bonus track' from the new album. The first big hitter of the night, and one of my favourites is 'Western Skies' from the superb 'White Rainbow' album (2018). Further tracks from Seawater follow which is a good thing. I've seen some bands that just play lip service to a new album. Maybe thinking the fans just want to hear the old stuff? Looks like we are going to get a good supply tonight.

Olivia

I've said it before and I'll say it again, 'Bryan Josh' has to be the most underrated Guitarist in 'Rock'. Combined with gravelly vocals he is up there alongside 'Blackmore' and 'Gilmour' no doubt. 'Passengers' seems to be a setlist staple from my experience. From their 5th studio album in 2003 the title track is haunting, perfect for Olivia's vocals. The floor is then handed over to fellow guitarist/vocalist 'Chris Johnson' for the equally haunting 'Silver Glass'. Another great voice and and extremely talented and versatile musician.That could be said for all of the band members though, blending together perfectly. Definitely a case of the sum of it's parts rather than individualistically. Another perfect illustration is the flute playing by Angela. The final track before the interval the atmospheric 'The Night Sky' a perfect example. Images of mountain valleys and star filled skies are conjured up in this song takes us to the break.

The band return to the stage, Olivia has had a costume change. we re-start with a couple more tracks from the 'Passengers' album  'Distant Train' and 'Answer the Question'. More tracks from Seawater follow on what is becoming another brilliant night. We are pretty much full, a few spaces dotted around, maybe they are still trying to negotiate a way out of Newport Pagnell?

Mostly Autumn are well known for their many varied influences from Celtic Folk themes to hard Rock. The harmonies combine so well together too, making them in my opinion an unmissable band. I manage a few hasty photos ... I'm quite well covered and take the risk of getting the dreaded tap on the shoulder that usually happens at The Stables. Keyboardist Iain Jennings is right in my sights and I get a decent result. Unfortunately Bassist Andy Smith is completely out of sight for much of the gig escaping my attentions. 

We get another lovely song from the wonderful 'Chris Johnson' repertoire 'Changing Lives'. I love this song and it always reminds me of something 'Fleetwood  Mac might have done. The set finishes with a brilliant version of the epic 'White Rainbow'. This is probably as 'Heavy' as MA get and very much in the Nightwish style as the song progresses. Some great drumming by Henry Rogers too and it's just great. The night wouldn't be complete without the stirring 'Heroes never die' But as we know with these Christmas shows that isn't the end of proceedings. Oh no, it is time for the band to put on their Christmas hats and tinsel.     

Let the Christmas party begin! Chris leads us into 'I believe in Father Christmas' . Bryan tells us that he has now mastered the riff. The crowd are all on their feet now clapping and cheering wildly. My Christmas favourite comes next with ' A Spaceman came travelling' with Chris on lead vocals and sounding as good as Chris de burgh and no mistake. The night is wrapped up with my wife's favourite 'Fairytale of New York' . I'm sure I saw a tear in her eye again. The Christmas songs set things up nicely for the celebrations to come. Combined with eight songs from the new album it has been a night to remember! 

Thanks to Kieran Chapman for the use of his photos (the first two).