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| JOHN OTWAY'S BIG BAND THE ROBIN 2 CLUB, BILSTON, UK. 5th September 2007 It's extremely difficult to write a serious review about a performer who's never taken himself seriously for more than 5 minutes during his entire career. Even if you hate the music, you'll still love the show! On every previous occasion I've witnessed, John Otway - both solo and with his band - never fails to deliver a fun-packed performance. This gig was no exception, as an enthusiastic crowd waited in eager anticipation - the support slot being provided by singer/guitarist Murray Torklidsen - that's the rhythm guitarist from Otway's Big Band! It's about half 9-ish and John Otway and his band take to the stage and start tonight's set with '(Cor Babv That's') Reallv Free' John's first chart hit (number 27 in 1977) During this first number, while the band are playing, John performs several gambols across the stage, one of which resulted in a guitar stand getting knocked over. Nothing too drastic about this you may think, apart from the fact that there was an acoustic guitar still on it at the time! Needless to say rapturous laughter followed. John is truly great when it comes to talking to his fans as he informs us - 'That was my first hit 30 years ago, so it means I've been a pop star for 30 years!' This announcement was followed by more applause and laughter, especially when you consider the fact that he has only achieved two chart hits in those thirty years. The second hit being 25 years after the first - more on that one later. Returning to this gig, John proceeds by reminding us of the benefits of 7" singles over CDs because 'The B-side used to sell as many copies as the A-side!' After the guitar intro, and the semi spoken 'Okay, let's make this the big one for Otway' the band give us the B side of the first hit - the bizarrely titled 'Beware Of The Flowers (Cause I'm Sure They're Going To (Get You, Yeah).' In my opinion, this song is the superior track, far more up-tempo and catchy - and should have been the A side. Next up, and we're treated to a few selected cover versions, Tom Jones's 'Delilah', The Osmonds' 'Crazy Horses' and Bachmann Turner Overdrives' 'You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet.' But you really ain't seen nothin' until you've witnessed his version of 'House Of The Rising Sun' complete with (essential) audience participation. Far too much to explain here, but it's become a standard feature of John's set - with or without the band. Check out the video clip on the enhanced CD 'Abbey Road Sessions' (ABBEY1). Another standard and notable set feature is John's second hit, 'Bunsen Burner'. A lively number featuring a backing track borrowed from 'Disco Inferno', released with a proper promo video, and produced by Barry Upton (of Steps fame) this was a worthy hit. I have it on pretty good authority that this was released as a single on John's 50th birthday, can anyone confirm this? Talking about CDs and John's recorded work, his live shows cover a broad spectrum of his career. Tonight's set features 'Cheryl's Going Home' and 'Geneve' from 1977's 'John Otway And Wild Willy Barretf album, as well as 'We Rock' and 'Enjoy (It Just Won't Last)' from his most recent album, 2004's 'Ot Air'. A world tour was planned to coincide with this last release, but sadly never came to fruition. This man entertains, with or without his backing band. No disrespect to the band, as John is accompanied by excellent musicians, besides the aforementioned Murray and Barry, lead guitar duties are handled by Richard Holgarth from Eddie And The Hot Rods. There's no sign of lack on the Otway live front. He boasts a busy live schedule for the rest of this year. To catch the two-hit wonder in action, or for just more info, go to www.johnotway. com. GEOFF BROWN |
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