Written By: STEVE LUCAS
Photos By: STEVE LUCAS
This was my second trip to this venue. It’s not often you get to go to a rock show in a church. But it’s becoming a popular venue for artists on the emerging scene who want to put on a stripped-out show. And there are good reasons for it. It has capacity for around 100 punters, some seated, some standing, so it qualifies as intimate, but accommodates enough fans to generate an atmosphere. And, it has that narrow but high characteristic that gives a different vibe to most music venues. Of course, the things that make any musical performance a success or failure, are the musicians. So, on that note…..
I didn’t know Harry Pane before he was announced as support for EMPYRE, so I listened to a few tracks to see what to expect. Harry’s recordings are excellent, and it was clear I was going to see a musician of considerable quality and he didn’t disappoint. Standing alone with a microphone, guitar and drum pad, playing songs that most of the room don’t know, to somebody else’s audience, takes guts; he had my respect before making a single sound. Then came a performance of 8 songs (6 originals and 2 covers) that had the audience paying attention from the beginning.
His performing style is both relaxed and passionate. His vocal style can be soothing and stirring as the song requires. His guitar playing is superb, and as all good musicians do, he made it look easy. In between songs he was engaging and witty and is another new name on my watch list.
We all have those times when the heavy stuff isn’t what we need, and I’m sure we’ve all got a chill out playlist (even those battle jacket wearers that might not admit it). Stick some Harry Pane tracks on that playlist and keep an eye out for his live shows. You won’t be disappointed with either.
In true self-deprecating style, EMPYRE messed up the intro to their first song – Relentless. But having sorted out a slight technical issue with the keyboard and with the audience still giggling, they launched an assault the senses.
For those that aren’t familiar with them, they are a real conundrum. Their songs are full of passion and thought-provoking lyrics. Their melodies, both instrumental and vocal, are anthemic in nature. In a 14-song set, any song could have been a show opener; yet they have this self-perpetuated ‘killing the vibe’ mantra that manifests itself as humour. Everyone is fair game, band mates and audience members alike. The result is that you find yourself engrossed in the songs but able to switch instantly to the relaxed and genuinely funny interludes between songs.
It’s a genuinely pleasurable experience.
Each track was consummately performed, and these guys clearly appreciate each other’s ability. There were lots of nods between band members – a particular drum fill, bass riff, or guitar solo might solicit a smile and a wink.
That’s the result of the time they each put in to create their art, individually and collectively. And it’s a little show of respect for each other’s talent. That really shows in the collective performance.
With the audience singing the chorus of the closing song back to the band as they took our applause, I knew I’d witnessed something special!
The setlist in full:
Relentless, Cut to the Core, Just a Ride, Too Close, Your Whole Life Slows, My Bad, Drive, Forget Me, Titanium, Homegrown, New Republic, Hit and Run, Stone and the curtain was brought down with Only Way Out.
