Whoever is out there… Whoever is left… We’ve got to look out for each other… If we don’t, who will? The future is already here and it’s not some idealistic future of the past! Over..
Well who’d ‘a’ thunk it, yet again, on a (not so) sunny Saturday in December here we were, Mr. Silverback and EiTC, stomping around West One in anticipation of a solstice spectacular with none other than the magnificent Ruts DC.
We traipsed around the heart of London’s west end reminiscing about and seeing what remains of the London of our youth. We took in the Gibson Garage and looked at the ridiculously overpriced instruments on display there. In all fairness, the staff are very friendly and welcoming. And more than happy to sit you down with the latest Jimmy Page double neck, which was nice and a joy to play. But coming in at a shade under 9K, won’t be adding one of those to the EiTC armoury any time soon… We took in a tray of thali just off Leicester Square for sustenance before strolling north toward tonight’s venue 229.
We ventured inside, to discover a sea of friendly faces being bathed in the sound of The WitchDoktors. A sound which is both well-constructed and deftly delivered. The crowd were enjoying it and the sound inside the venue was comfortingly clear.
A short break and the amazing General Saint took over the stage for a set of tunes from his latest release. We enjoyed a great set delivered with energy, humour and authenticity.
In a flash it was time for Ruts DC.
Ruffy, Segs and Leigh took the stage to a warm welcome and proceeded to deliver a storming Solstice set.
The sound tonight was simply magical in addition to the band being on form, kudos to the sound crew and something about the venue.
Ruts DC served up song after song stunning us into musical submission with apparent ease from the very first note until the very last. Not a single of those notes or beats going to waste.
Talking of notes and beats, the bass was prominent tonight and locked in with both Drum and Guitar. I’ve referred to Ruffy and Segs as the Sly and Robbie of Punk before – tonight, as ever, they reinforced this notion. Not forgetting Mr. Heggarty’s contribution to rhythmic proceedings. Rhytmically they collide tight as a unit!
With the mix being very clear, it was great to have that clarity with the BVs backing up Segs, both Leigh and Dave sounding on form, particularly Mr. Ruffy’s croon-ful harmonising.
A band with such a tight, almost telepathic bond becomes a platform from which to explore subtle changes and improvisations with which tonight’s set was replete.
In between songs Segs was on his best form with banter, both humorous and serious. Reminding us of the bond we all share in a genuine, heartfelt manner. Namechecking familiar faces. And joking with Dave that the set may be a bit long (it was perfect)! And the aforementioned Mr. Ruffy even namechecked EiTC – Cheers Sir! On the subject of bonds we were treated tonight to new number Bound in Blood.
Channeling the mystical powers of the Winter Solstice was like falling off a log for Ruts DC, much to the gratitude of those assembled to witness such finery.
Verdict: Blimey!
Over…
Words: EiTC
Images: Karl Silverback
Pigeon and EiTC photo: Adam Salem
Bonus:
