Start the new year on a high. That's the plan, right? Well, it didn't go that way. Let's face it, it seldom works out as planned. Thankfully, normal service was resumed as I fled my sickbed and caught the charismatic Jonathan Carr performing at King Tuts.
Heart Beats were on first. Delivering, with little aplomb, a wall of wailing shoegaze noise, this trio lacked direction in their set and seemed completely ignorant of their audience.
While being guilty of the odd song with solid rhythmic foundations, this act may need to delve further into the melody toy box if they wish to reel in fresh listeners.
Next up? Gallus Fever. Though undoubtedly Scottish, this piano-driven act ran through a fine set of lounge music gone positively wrong. Lead singer Graham was undeniably charming in delivery, while rhythm and percussion was provided nicely by the rest of the group. A lack of guitar is usually a criticism of a band wishing to establish themselves in popular rock but Gallus Fever are a fine representation of how a band can put in a great show without six-string flirtation.
If Scotland is looking for a talent to knock Jamie Cullum off his perch then look no further than Jonathan Carr. Backed by a strong cast of musicians - including his sister - Carr wowed a loving audience with a jazz-infested set in which Carr had free reign to evidence all the avenues of his ability. As much as Carr will come to be known as a jazz musician, his forays into pop and reggae music are not to be overlooked. Whether on piano, guitar, or just centre-stage with a microphone, Jonathan Carr is the real deal. Don't say you weren't warned.
After all this, some sleep should be in order. Not so. Cue some serious drinking. Alcohol might not be the best cure or a cold, but it's my cure. Good night.