RPA and The United Nations ofSound @ The Enmore, Sydney(31/07/10)

Wed 4th Aug, 2010 in Gig Reviews

There are some events that one is privy to that leave a long lasting impression. Such was the case with one of this year’s best concerts I had the good fortune to witness. The night commenced with Little Birdy singer Katy Steele, back in Australia to do her solo tour, after relocating to New York.

For such a diminutive soul, she commands great presence, with a voice that reached the heights and captured the punters attention.

Despite throwing a hissy fit at Splendour, there were no prima donna tendencies as Richard Ashcroft appeared on stage flanked with his backing band The United Nations of Sound. The set commenced with his exciting new song Are you Ready? and the audience were in for a treat as the crowd pleaser Lucky Man reared its head. The night comprised of The Verve classics and solo work predominantly from his latest release United Nations of sound such as Born Again.

When not sashaying onstage the acoustic guitar was in his hand and the beautiful Song For Lovers incorporated a hearty sing along from the audience that united us in our admiration for the exceptionally talented singer. There is more to Ashcroft that being a lanky poster boy for Cool Britannia, he is a performer with substance that need not rely on props and banter.

Every song was memorable and well received. There were no fillers, no over the top guitar solos rather a tight set of meaty numbers, making their impact. The well-celebrated Bittersweet Symphony was a delight and was followed by an acoustic solo set incorporating more of The Verve classics such as The Drugs Don’t Work and Sonnet.

The latest songs, Beatitude, She Brings Me The Music, Let My Soul Rest and This Thing Called Life sounded great. America particularly struck a chord, as a racy number making an impact.

Ashcroft shouldn’t have walked of the stage at Splendour, be it “the singer lost his voice” as stated by management or he had no desire to compete with the Pixies and Empire of the Sun who were on at the same time at other stages. But there’s no denying he pens amazing songs, has the most wonderful voice and is a fantastic performer that gives value for money. For all those who missed out at Splendour, let is be said “you really did miss out”

Check out the photos from the gig