Most bands rely on touring as their greatest source of income. With that in mind, I have to commend the good people of Glasgow, who turned out in great numbers, drank heartily and made plenty of noise for Son of Dave At King Tuts Wah Wah Hut.
Glasgow folk mob Woodenbox with a Fist Full of Fivers began the night. Ever the hard-working band, they are evidently reaping the rewards. Blending traditional folk-rock with potent saxophone, Woodenbox creates an enjoyable live show. As comfortable with upbeat songs - such as "Situations" - as with darker sounds, Woodenbox delivered an impressive and enjoyable set; no doubt winning over a few fans in the process.
An unexpected treat came in the form of Tom Mansi and the Ice Breakers. "Love on the Rails" buzzed like it had been stolen from a Cramps album. Sounding like he grew up on gravel and whisky, Mansi proved himself a capable frontman, but it was the collective energy that made the show. And perhaps the songs. Borrowing from country and roots influences, they still managed to come off sounding accessible. It was not without cause that the crowd called for an encore from the band, as their performance had left them with a very pleasant taste in their mouth.
And then came Benjamin Darvill aka Son of Dave. Looking like William Burroughs, speaking like Jack Lemmon, Darvill delivered a neo-Beefheartian set, bold in its divergence and crisp in delivery. "Leave Without Runnin'" set the tone for the evening. Any non-believers were soon worshipping at his feet. The fact that the great shrills of noise emanating from the speakers came solely from one man almost defied belief. The masterful harmonica fiddling and craggy chanting were accompanied by dirty urban beats. A recipe for disaster? Not from where I sit.
Darvill forged an excellent rapport with his audience, even inviting two select members onstage. While they did little of note, it was a smart gesture nonetheless. "Goddamn" was another few minutes of exemplary harping from the London based bluesman. As expected, he returned for an encore, much to the delight of his adoring fans, before departing to clamours of applause. In the case of this gentleman, seeing is believing. The crowd witnessed a truly unique show from an absorbing performer.