When you get to a “certain age” the prospect of a matinee or afternoon gig is incredibly appealing. Even more so if it is a show from the mightily talented and passionately aware performer that is Joe Solo. The original plan was for Joe to be supported by one of York’s finest troubadors, Boss Caine (a.k.a. Dan Lucas). However Dan was unfortunately unwell and couldn’t make it. Instead Boss Caine’s replacement was in fact Joe Solo, he played two sets. This show was a part of his promotional tour for his exceptionally good album, ‘Punk Rock Prepared Us for This’. There were not many people in the room who weren’t familiar with Joe, his music, his political passion and deep compassion. Upstairs at the Artful Dodger is a delightful space and perfectly suited to Joe’s music.
He played a lot of songs from the new album which seemed to fit into the set like a comfortable old shoe, and I mean that in a positive way. The venue added a wonderful level of intimacy and it times it felt like Joe was speaking directly to us as individuals rather than as a group, that is the kind of skill that is difficult to master. The chats between songs were humorous, entertaining, compassionate, passionate and deep in equal measure. The audience participation on “Rise Up! Rise Up!” was highly emotional and extremely powerful. Both sets were towering successes and I hope we see Joe in York again very soon!
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