Black Gold @ Hare & Hounds, Birmingham, 9 December 2009
I must admit that since Birmingham promoter Carlo Salazzo has been putting on bands at The Hare and Hounds, the quality of its live music has improved dramatically. This is evident in tonight’s opening act, Brooklyn duo, Black Gold.
As always, before going to review an artist I checked their MySpace page and to be honest I wasn’t bowled over by them. I thought it was going to be two guys, a keyboard and endless knob turning – but thankfully my preconceived ideas were laid to rest as soon as the band took to the stage.
They opened with ‘Plans and Reveries’ – an instantly likeable track that shows off Eric Ronick’s outstanding piano and Than Luu’s impeccable beats. This was musicianship on a different level. ’Detroit’ is a disco infused up tempo number that had Eric totally lost in the music as his hands moved frantically across the keys. The new single, ‘Idol’ and ‘Breakdown’ followed. Erick’s vocals on the latter were exquisite as he almost whispered the words, “You’re having a breakdown…” on the chorus and then smiled at the three ladies at the front of the stage. The band seemed to be having a great time on stage with the bass player jigging about to the music which was great to see.
After each song the crowd seem to warm to the band and Eric told us, ”…it’s great to be back in England, and thank you all for coming out tonight to see us”. The duo closed with ‘Shine’ and ‘The Comedown’ which was a befitting way to end what for me was an outstanding half hour of well-crafted songs. It was an absolute pleasure to listen to.
Setlist
Plans And Reveries
Detroit
Idol
Breakdown
Shine
The Comedown
Reveiw and photos: Ian Dunn
Whilst we appreciate your excellent review of the gig, it is a bit unfair (and untrue) to suggest that pre-Bham promoters, the H&H had few good gigs. Capsule, Jibbering, World Unlimited, Leftfoot, Friendly Fire, Curate’s Egg promoters would all disagree. The venue was already firmly established by the beginning of 2009. But The Indie / Rock gigs have definitely improved as that is B’ham promoters main focus.
Hi Adam ,thanks for your comments.I’m not for one minute suggesting that prior to Birmingham promoters the H&H has had few goods,some of the best gigs i’ve seen have been there, some going back 20 years or so.The Baroness gig last Friday was a fantastic sold-out show put on by Capsule.
I like your photos Ian. I am glad I don’t review formally :oS
Wx
Thanks Wayne.
Hi Ian,
Thanks for the response. Let me know if you want to come down and review some of our other shows.
Cheers
Adam