This was an unusual gig for me and in truth I was a late substitute for someone caught up with the pre- Christmas festivities. So the chance of a new venue and something a bit different was too good to be turned down (especially as the ticket was free). The main act 'Deaf Havana' I was familiar with although I was not over impressed with most of what I had heard. Described as Alternative Rock they were formed in 2005 in Kings Lynn.
It had been a long wait but at last the waiting was over. Originally scheduled for May 16th it was cancelled due to the illness suffered by guitarist Robin Boult. Even now some dates are being re-scheduled as Fish is having a few voice issues. So it wasn't surprising that a wag in the crowd greeted him with 'Happy Easter'. With Marillion he made 4 albums before leaving in 1987. As a solo artist he recorded 10 albums including the latest 'A Feast of Consequences' after which this tour is named.
It was the most packed that I have seen the Roadmender but it didn't stop Fish remarking on what a quiet crowd it was. 'Nobody has even shouted our for 'Grendel' yet'. 'It's a sorry state when you have to request your own heckles'.
Lots of 'Fish tales' between the songs which were interesting and amusing.
Highlights for me though were the two Marillion songs ; Heart of Lothian and the brilliant 'Incubus' as an encore. It would have been nice to have sen more Marillion songs in the set list but it seems to be an area consciously moved away from.
In Classic Rock's Blues reader's poll Larry Miller was voted no.3 only beaten by Joe Bonamassa and Walter Trout. So this was clearly someone who had to be taken very seriously indeed. Add to that someone hailed as the new 'Gary Moore' and filling the niche left behind by Rory Gallagher then praise doesn't come much higher.
The Cornmarket is a lovely intimate little venue in Kettering.Dave Morse and Richard Boyles are the founders of 'Cornmarket Blues'and to promote blues/rock music in Kettering and after two SOLD OUT concerts are moving to a larger purpose built venue in Corby with much better audience and artist facilities.
On 2nd May 2015 they are moving to a purpose built venue in Corby called The Raven Hall. Increased capacity of 300, partial seating, real ale bar, separate bar, food, accomodation and FREE on site parking. The venue has a great PA and light system to enhance your enjoyment of the show.
Meanwhile Larry Miler continued to prove just what a showman and performer he is. Mixing his own large back catalogue with a few covers all expertly and elegantly crafted. Highlights included the Peter Green classic 'need your love so bad' and Rory Gallagher's 'walkin on hot coals'.
On tonight's evidence it is not surprising that 'Blues Matters Magazine' write 'The most fiery and exciting blues rock guitarist on the current scene.
Just a word for the excellent supporting act 'Albany Down' who really put on a great set and a bad to keep an eye open for.
It's one of those 'shall we, shan't we sort of days. The weather has been poor all week and has worsened with the arrival of Sto...
