Gig Review
The SPIKEdrivers
Saturday, 15 December 2007:
A superb concert from this well-known band. Each time we see them they just get better and better. Just over half the material played were their own compositions, which stand up very well next to the selection of standards that they also perform. With the stage, drum kit and microphone stands nicely decorated with Christmas tinsel, Ben Tyzak, Constance Redgrave and Maurice McElroy kicked off with a beautiful rendition of "Gallows Pole". Tunes about trains feature extensively in their sets, yet rarely covering the same territory or themes.
First up was "Ghost Train": it swung beautifully. On Robert Johnson’s "Kind Hearted Woman" was a slow, well-controlled and emotionally charged version. Washboards always seem to get the rhythm going and "Family Man Blues" is a real kicker, making it hard to sit still! Like all good bands, The SPIKEdrivers recognise there needs to be a balance between light and shade, plenty of upbeat numbers tempered with some slow gentle ballads. "Gypsy Wind" written by and sung by Constance is a good example of the latter, more intimate side of the band’s extensive repertoire.
Note: Click thumbnail to view full artist image.
Photo credit: Paul Martin.
... continued
In the second set "Layin’ Down Lincolns", Ben’s homage to his early years growing up in rural America, had an insistent riff getting a good sound between the guitar, percussion and washboard. Where I thought the group hit a real high was on Willie Dixon’s "Little Red Rooster"; this was excellent and the energy was pulsating. Maurice’s own written and sung "Goodbye Mr Blues" is an amusing tune – his vocals get better every time he visits.
"Soul Searching Blues" is a fast paced rocker, what I call a "butt kicker"! A very strong version of Robert Johnson’s "Stop Breaking Down", then on Elmore James’ "Dust My Broom" they turned on a real barnstormer, Ben’s dexterity with the slide turned into some really delicate note playing during the solo. Keeping up the festive spirit they played a very witty own composition called "Santa’s Little Helper" – packed full of wry and sly innuendoes and a million miles away from traditional Xmas songs.
Called back instantly for an encore, their final number, Slim Harpo’s "Hip Shake Baby", included audience participation with make-shift shakers and maracas. With Maurice’s powerful drumming complemented by Constance’s driving bass and the boogie rhythm of Ben’s guitar, this was a perfect ending to a wonderful show! This wasn’t just music; this was consummate, professional SPIKEdrivers music! Very classy indeed!
Review by: Lewis A Harris.
© Bluesnights. The Dorset Blues Society.
15 December 2007.
