Music lover, Roger Regular shares another review of a night out in Ryde. Ed
All I knew before getting to the Island’s favourite micro-venue, was a new band “Far From Rambo” were playing their first gig and being supported by guests.
I had been expecting good things as, Far From Rambo are formed by the three Platform One teachers, formerly from the band “The Project”.
Charlotte took the first slot
The first support was Charlotte.
Now Charlotte I have been watching for a number of weeks during the Platform One 1st year Graduation course student nights on a Wednesday, at the Wightrock Bar.
Charlotte and many others are showing that it’s not a one-year wonder with musical talent, here on the Island.
This was Charlotte’s first gig and she played an acoustic set of several covers, as well as her own songs. Charlotte has a natural singing talent and maturity beyond her years. Her set included some really nice and well written songs such as “Take In Life”, “Look To The Stars” and covers including “Sunday” from Maroon5.
She had the audience full attention, who showed their appreciation with generous applause.
Paul and Sue up next
Next was an acoustic duo, Paul and Sue, who I’ve not seen before, but have heard them as Badman’s Soul.
This acoustic set was also a mixture of covers and their own material, such as “Don’t Look Back, I’m Only Human. Covers included songs by Aretha Franklin, Minnie Ripperton, and Corinne Bailey Rae.
The sound from Paul’s guitar was amazing, so crisp, this was probably due to it being hand made in Scotland and to Shaun’s skills in producing the right sound for all who play there.
Sue has such a good voice, which does work well with an acoustic backing. What I loved, was the angst, pain, passion, and feeling Sue put into every song. Sue reminds me of a female version of Joe Cocker with the hands and facial expressions, well done Sue.
By now, the audience had loved what they heard, listening intensely and not a sound from them, allowing a pin being heard if dropped. I felt almost guilty for the click of my camera, capturing each shot.
Far From Rambo headline
Finally Far From Rambo began their set, which is again a mixture of covers and original songs. For those who don’t know these guys, they play some of the best jazz, soft jazz around.
Far From Rambo began as a trio (Josh on bass, Marc on keys and Dave on drums). The set included “seven days of falling”, “possibly maybe” “dodge the dole”. Every song was an enjoyable experience.
I was glad to see they continued with the tradition of including students during some songs.
Students join in
So first up was Alice; like Charlotte, Alice is another 1st year graduate student at Platform One, she too is showing great promise, playing some very good vocal parts. Second up was Seb (pictured), who I have been following for a number of years and is now a 2nd year graduate student. Seb also showed off his vocal skills. Seb is a great front man in any band, playing guitar and singing, I love watching him.
All this jazz really pushes the performers ability, bringing the best out of them and allowing some improvisation where appropriate.
I loved this night so much, I would definitely see all these again, and it seemed so right, I would love to see all three performing acts together again, well recommended.
Image: © Roger Regular
