Malcolm Middleton at Union Chapel

Malcolm Middleton at Union Chapel

21 July, 2008
by: Polyphonic_jo

With songs like 'We’re All Gonna Die', 'A Moaning Shite' and 'Loneliness Shines' you wouldn't be blamed for thinking that an evening in the company of Malcolm Middleton would be a very sombre experience indeed.

It is, in fact, far from it. What some might call depressing lyrics are actually brutally honest, poetic musings on life's little hurdles. The frank, often humorous lyrics telling Middleton's tales of woe were delivered with tenderness, spirit and a healthy dose of mirth.

'Blue Plastic Bags' is an ode to all those who have stumbled back from the local corner shop with that enemy of every eco-warrior full of "six bottles of Stella, Jacobs Creek, 20 fags". During this Middleton encouraged the audience to "sing along to the sad song" but the crowd were surprisingly restrained; in fact Middleton later complained "there's not been enough heckling tonight".

Maybe it is the revered and gracious surroundings? The venue certainly is impressive – the magnificent Union Chapel in Islington is a tranquil oasis amongst the honking Highbury traffic. Soft, coloured lighting bathed the stage in purples and deep yellows giving the octagonal Chapel an intimate warmth and peacefulness that was deeply soothing. Not exactly the atmosphere for a raucous sing-along.

Middleton is supported by two extraordinary musicians. Jenny Reeve's exquisite vocals (think serene purity of Karen Carpenter crossed with haunting melodrama of Hope Sandoval from Mazzy Star) accompany Middleton's rugged ramblings perfectly and are matched only by her striking violin playing. Rhythmic double bass comes courtesy of the energetic Stevie Jones whose spirited plucking complements Middleton's wholesome, melodic guitar.

In his rich Scottish tone, Middleton addresses the audience as if bantering with one of his mates. Here's someone you could go for a pint with; a normal bloke with a wry sense of humour. Yet, his sharp insights are intriguing, make you want to listen to each song over and over to fully grasp his sublimely simple reflections on life.

After a small breather, Middleton returns to the stage for a solo acoustic set and finishes with the breathtaking 'Devil and the Angel'. This song is a perfect example of Middleton's style; poignant reverie delivered with a cheeky smile. His final self-deprecating comment for the evening? "Sorry for talking so much shit". Well we don't mind Malcolm, in fact we love it.

Polyphonic_jo