The Leadmill, Sheffield
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Live & Let Live
Photos: Keith Stodart & Chris Jones & Johnny Was |
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Despite the best attempts of the motorway network, Chris Jones and I arrived at the Leadmill just in time to catch The Yards’ opening set and what a treat it was, particularly after witnessing lead singer Chris Helme’s disappointing opening set at the City Varieties, Leeds. The Yards are a high-energy rock band for the 21st century; well-crafted songs, good harmonies and a high standard of musicianship (bass player Stuart Fletcher and singer/guitarist Helme were both members of the Seahorses). The highlight was an excellent version of the Buffalo Springfield number, “Mr Soul”. The two downsides to the set were that it was too short and the sound mix was muddy. No sooner had the band exited than the ‘roadies’ appeared on stage to cart away The Yards’ gear and to set up for Love who came on to rapturous applause from the tightly-packed and ‘well-oiled’ crowd. I stood at the back near the sound desk while Chris managed to get behind the barrier in front of the stage to get his ‘pics’ of the show. This is the third time I have seen Love live in the past year and boy, did they blow the cobwebs away, from the opening chimes of Live & Let Live to the closing chord of Between Clark & Hilldale, we were treated to an amazing performance. The band, including Arthur were hot, in particular lead guitarist Mike Randle, whose playing eclipsed anything I had seen before, so much emotion yet with control and sensitivity. And Arthur? Well, what can I say? Arthur was stupendous, playing to the crowd as any great showman should, drawing them on and out. The highpoint in this gig though was Arthur’s harmonica playing – extending the solos – being both soulful and sharp – this guy is a hero! The show ended all too soon (82 minutes), with Arthur apologising to the audience and explaining that the ‘management’ had issued a tight ‘curfew’, and the crowd baying for more. After the show we met up with bass player Dave Chapple, who as ever was generous and warm in the time that he gave us, discussing the gig and talking of the band’s future plans. I have to say of all the musicians I’ve met these guys in Arthur’s band (who were once called Baby Lemonade) are some of the nicest people in the business – they deserve far wider recognition. So if you get the chance to see Love on this current tour – don’t miss out on a great opportunity – you won’t be disappointed. Geoff Brookes |
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