Crikey indeed!
This was the best Man gig I've been to since Terry's brief return for the Bottom Line in Shepherd's Bush. Any idea that this was a Man tribute band was very firmly dealt with. In fact, this lineup treated the classics with far less reverence and rigidity than any post 1983 reunion. They're back to being a jamming band again with a real interplay betweeen the musicians. A lot of this is down to the light touch of Rene. really responsive to what goes on around him and leaves lots of space for the lead instruments. The post 1983 material worked well here and Josh's material, for instance, off the new album more than held its own in a live setting.
Josh, Martin and Phil are coming along nicely as a vocal team too. James' and Josh's guitar playing were both very fine. James the more technical and Josh very measured and thoughtful. Phil, when there was no obvious keyboard space, did some nice rhythmic stuff on the piano bottom octave in counter-rhythm to Martin and some nice arpeggiated flourishes too.
The sound was great. Nice top end PA running well below capacity.
Negatives, there have to be some, were minor. James' strat wasn't getting through too well. The tele was somewhat better but the sound was still a bit thin. Nice to see a copycat in use though. Phil's organ sound wasn't quite happening and the sooner he gets a proper Hammond and Leslie combination the better (the offer's open Phil - my A100 and 145 for any UK gigs).
As usual, the band were perfect gentlemen after the gig. The low turnout (about 40) were very appreciative and the band made them work for their encore. Nice one chaps - no coming back on after only 10 seconds of applause. Time to spread the word people. This is a new Man playing new and old Man material with an identity all of its own, and very nicely too.
