Live Review

Stephen Langstaff – Carling Academy

13th Mar 2008

There’s an early door and an empty floor at the Carling Academy, but tickets sold-out at Carling 2, last time. It’s Saturday 8th March 2008@ 7:00pm, Liverpool. I’m eagerly awaiting the first ever “solo” act to play the main stage at Carling 1. A young, trendy give-it-all kinda guy, who I noticed a few years ago, downstairs at The Jacaranda (fondly known as “The Jac”, with a hard guttural ‘C’, from the back of the throat). This beautiful voice was tingling down my spine and, at first, I couldn’t see from where it emanated, but I’ll never forget it and neither will any of the ever-growing battalion of fans who show up to see him open, with a lone vocal: *I Am Home* and . . .

First I must mention the support act. Stephen’s fans are treated to a diligent set from Rook and the Ravens of Glossop, Manchester. Think massive rock ballads split by a country blade. This is a four-piece band comprised of at least two excellent vocalists: Joe and Jay Fagin, harmoniously effective, either one is capable of lead. In fact, they all sing. The drummer: John B. Major (you gotta be kiddin’ me) and bass player, Dave Brodie, have good stage rapport. Two alliances are at work in this band, but they flock together with precision. I like your vertical bass playing, Brodie. Lyrics are intelligent, and as real as The Girl with a Chip on her Shoulder or Van Parts Ltd (included on a quality CD with 5 tracks). Hear Me is my favourite.

As I mentioned earlier, Stephen Langstaff sings about it, and he certainly looks at home: with stage lights glowing, screaming girls, and to where did the bare floor under my feet disappear?
The crowd knows most of Stephen’s music by heart. He gives everything he’s got, for them, and they can’t get enough. This must be overwhelming; it’s been a rapid ride so far, but Langstaff is professional, he takes it on and smiles while calmly kicking a balloon off the stage. He has added to his repertoire of memorable songs with some new tracks, Opposite Walls and Let Me Out – very well-received. The backing-band is formidable and Stephen looks more luminous than a hair ad!

Accompanied by Keyboard: Ged Allen, Drums: Steven Burkert & Bass Guitar: Nick Sidor

I Saw the Angels received the rockin’, waving response it fully deserves. I heard a whisper (from Ste) that there may be a video to accompany this blinder of a song soon! I look forward to that, and to much more.

Don’t miss an opportunity to see him at a gig near you, soon, and keep your radio tuned to listen out for his distinctive vocal of resounding, emotive lyrics.