Sometimes you think that you should just buy a lottery ticket. You know - you get that feeling that you are about to get lucky. Probably the result of excessive beer consumption (is there such a thing?), this Bluesbunny got that special feeling and headed off in the general direction of a Free Candy Session for on the menu tonight were Al Shields, Salon Society, Jointpop and The Stops.
First on was Al Shields. Treading the well worn path of one man and his acoustic guitar, he delivered a set of songs that would make any country troubadour proud. "Travellin' Man'" was a good example of this but songs like "Warning" suggested there is more to him than following in the footsteps of others
And then there was Salon Society and here endeth the restraint. Four in number tonight, they presented us with a fine display of showmanship and musical dexterity. Lead singer Roxanne's took over the somewhat tiny stage of the Liquid Ship and went full speed ahead to sell their songs to an appreciative audience. From well known songs like "Don't Die Inside" to their current single "Undone", they show a musical maturity that allows them to include considerable rhythmic complexity in their sound. In other words, they're good.
Next on were Jointpop. Visiting this country from Trinidad and Tobago, they also proved to be as impressive live act. They played with considerable vigour and they possessed a fine collection of commercial songs from the catchy "Monday Morning Love Situation" to the laconic "The Fool". Lead singer Gary Hector's growling vocals fitted the groove perfectly and brought back memories of seventies' rock music. A damn fine accompaniment to beer.
Rounding things off for the evening were The Stops. In contrast to Jointpop, they had a positively laidback sound. Not a bad thing, however, as lead singer Emily's haunting style made us think of her as a female Chris Isaak (and we like Chris Isaak). Made for the soundtrack of any movie that has desert vistas, they have the ability to captivate. If it wasn't fall the call of chicken pakora, this Bluesbunny would surely have fallen in love with her.
Lucky with the music tonight but as for the weather? Fair Friday in Glasgow and it is raining. Well, not so much raining as ricocheting water off the pavements. Time to get wet!