Narc. Magazine Online
Reliably informed
Matthew McDonnell enjoys a night of joyous music making courtesy of the well-loved band
Image: James by Carl Chambers
James hold a special place in my heart because when I was introduced to them She’s A Star and Born of Confusion were mainstays of my Dad’s road trip playlist when I was younger, accompanying us to many a rainy caravan holiday. When the opportunity arose to see James live at the Utilita Arena, It was only right that I took my Dad along with me.
First on were Doves, whose blend of Americana and indie rock exudes the sort of confidence and poise that you’d come to expect from a band of their talent and tenure. There Goes The Fear is a gentle, almost nurturing song, unabashedly hopeful without feeling insincere or trite. Kingdom of Rust was the highlight for me, a Morricone-esque country song, peppered with beautiful chimes, an equally beautiful melody, and a soaring string section to take us out.
When James came out I knew I was in for a treat, nine members, two drum kits, bongos and dedicated dancers: they meant business. From the word go Tim Booth was dancing like a man possessed, not once slowing down throughout the two hour set (not bad for 66). It’s clear from the outset that we’re here for one reason only; to have fun. There’s no pretentiousness or macho posturing, just good fun, plain and simple.
Tim couldn’t stay still and took to wandering through the crowd, serenading audience members with Just Like Fred Astaire and Say Something, and I managed to get about three feet away from him during She’s A Star. The whole band were a well-oiled machine, switching instruments with ease, bursting into beautiful harmonies in an instant, all the while gyrating and jumping up and down to the music. The whole night was an exercise in letting go, and everyone in attendance that night seemed all too happy to oblige.
