Guinness is good for you. Just thought I'd say that even though I don't know if there is any scientific proof for that assertion. I doubt that there is but I will make another non-scientific assertion. Randolph's Leap are a class act and destined for greater things. Featuring Adam Ross and a variable number of cohorts, they have created and odd ball mix of twee pop and folk and decorated it with the kind of perceptive lyrics that make you stop and think. Stop, think and wonder. Of his songs, "Going Home "is the winner.
Sharon Martin takes to the stage. Once more with Ged then guitarist, a better opportunity to assess her talents than her appearance recently at the Free Candy Sessions is provided. The more up-tempo songs show that she can really belt it out while the rather more prevalent mid tempo numbers tended towards karaoke. She's a singer that needs a band.
As if to prove the point, Maeve O'Boyle has been on the road for a couple of months now with her band. It shows in their performance. They display a confidence that only comes with practice. Reminiscent of early Texas (that's a good thing by the way), they power through a curtailed set with poise and passion. Too soon they are gone although there is, of course, an album that you could take home.
All through the above, there are intermittent appearances by a cartoon weasel in an ill fitting suit. He flits, he cajoles the sound guy, he attempts to bribe the beautiful blonde bar staff. It's his engagement party tonight you see and the music has to stop. Some sort of double booking scenario has occurred. I give his marriage to the goat six months at the most.
So, booted out on to the street at 10pm, there's only one thing a gentleman should do and that is to retire to the Steps bar (Maeve O'Boyle is from Stepps so there is a reasonably neat segue there) and partake of one for the road. I ask of the owner if he sees all of life from his privileged position behind the bar. He says that he does. I look around the room. He's right.
Home James and don't talk to any nurses.