Continuing the outstandingly high
standard of blues gigs at The Harbourside Club, the John O'Leary Band
delivered two sets of superlative quality. Supplementing the trio of
founder members (O'Leary on vocals and harp, Jules Fothergill on
guitar and Joachim Greve on drums), Roger Innis on bass guitar and
Julian 'Mr Jools' Grudgings on keys completed the best yet line-up of
this magnificent band.
The fact that nearly two hours of
performing covered only twelve numbers, including an encore, fully
indicates the length and frequency of individual cameos from all the
band members. In the hands of less than brilliant musicians, that
formula has the potential to be self-indulgently boring. In the
event, each solo was a refreshing delight. Even the familiar content
of the sets are forgivable, as each number is so well delivered. The
mix is also a finely balanced programme of shuffles, slow blues and
up-tempo favourites.
The rich tone of John O'Leary's harp
work was particularly well enhanced by the sublime artistry of Jules
Fothergill on guitar. He seems to get better and better with each
appearance, combining sensitive phrasing with exceptional fingering
speed. He is now undoubtedly in the very top rank of UK blues
guitarists. Inniss and Grudgings have added considerably to the mix
with their individual flair, the former's bass guitar solos a match
for many a lead guitarist; while Joachim Greve's drumming is
simply incredible. To select highlights seems superfluous, but 'Early
In The Morning', 'Who's Been Talkin'?' and 'Black Cat Bone' were
especially well presented, with Greve's drum solo on the last named
number positively awesome.