David Gray at Omeara

Seasoned musician David Gray is back on the road with the 30^th anniversary tour of his debut LP A Century Ends and its follow-up Flesh.

Gracing the stage with band musicians he played with three decades ago, guitarist Neill MacColl and drummer Craig McClune, Gray is in high spirits, and remains so throughout. Starting the set with Birds Without Wings, Gray’s immediately recognisable rough-hewn voice remains unchanged. The Omeara is extremely packed – the gig would have been better suited to a bigger venue such as Lafayette, with a much larger capacity; it is so full, that people are spilling out of the doors, unable to see anything.

Venue setting aside, Gray and co are in fine fettle. Every track tonight is well received by the crowd; unsurprising, given Gray’s status. However, this was not always the case, the singer having had a difficult time before the hugely successful White Ladder. Gorgeous high notes in Lead Me Upstairs are enough to make one feel emotional, which is what the vocalist does best, creating songs that each tell a story, evoking the innermost feelings. Gray is genial with fans; when a woman exclaims “David, would you sail away with me for one night?” he wisecracks in return. Continuing in this light manner, the troubadour goes on to remark “They didn’t used to be like this, the 1994 gigs,” alluding to the sold-out concert, everyone laughing in reminiscence. The acoustics are crisp and vibrant, which cannot be said for all small venues; tonight’s audience are also rapt with attention, making the entire experience pleasurable. McClune’s drumming is worth mentioning, particularly on Flesh, while MacColl’s guitar riffs also add depth to tracks that contain strumming, which begin to sound a little repetitive.

The crowd goes wild for an encore, made up of Shine and L’s Song that easily befits a creek or marsh setting.

There’s an incredible amount of love, respect and adoration for Gray from his loyal fans, and the singer both appreciates and reciprocates this, having remained humble through his success, kindly shaking hands with those at the front.

The momentous hits Babylon and Please Forgive Me are sorely missed, but this concert remains proof that Gray and his music are still very much desired.

Selina Begum
Photos: Nick Bennett

For further information and future events visit David Gray’s website here.

Watch the video for the single here: