A review #inpictures @RJThompson at @sage_gateshead 17/10/2014

Review: RJ Thompson 

at the Sage Gateshead

17/10/2014

Richard J Thompson has had some success so far, from getting a support slot with Midge Ure to supporting the likes of Jools Holland (shortly to do so again), Gabrielle Aplin, Duke Special, Sandi Thom, The Proclaimers and Deacon Blue, Mr Thompson seems set to grab the attention of the music industry elite shortly.

Tonight was a triple treat as we had a starter of Candi's Dog, a threesome rather like a folk pop, more mature version of Bros with much better songs. I mean, these are really good songs, they have that vaguely familiar feel that makes them part of your mental soundtrack very easily. Harmonies with a touch of the Crowded House/Del Amitri but a bit more here and now. We purchased the EP CD as this is definitely something you want in your car, well I do.

Beth Macari we have up to now only seen at a beer festival singing mainly covers. It was pleasing to hear her singing her own material as it suited her soulful bluesy voice so much more. I was personally very impressed with how Beth has matured and how her songwriting has developed, maybe it's something I missed before? Her new song- out in a few weeks, Heartstrings is a plaintive  and well constructed piece of pop soul. It's really quite beautiful. We wish Beth every success with it.

 RJ Thompson has a great voice and stage presence and always puts on a great show with with what seems to be an ever expanding band. I first  noticed Jonathan Proud from Peculiar Disco Moves in this May's single The Numbers and tonight the band also had an added string section in the form of Rachael McShane (Bellowhead, Tony Bengtsson Band), throwing some fiddle and cello into the right places. 

The result is always a great sound and the new EP coming out soon House Upon The Hill (single video out 21/10/2014) is full of great music if tonight is anything to go by. The audience were brought to their feet at the beginning and end of the gig to boogie along to songs like the very foot-tappingly good The Numbers. 

This is a truly amazing band with a a fabulous frontman and a group of highly skilled and talented musicians who clearly love performing with Richard. This love of the music is infectious and the audience had a great night at the Sage.