Musicborn Rising – Amphibic and AJ Moore Band at Wilmington Arms
26 September, 2011
by: SuperDanvillain
The guys at Musicborn Rising bring you music, with brain cells.
The term ‘soft rock’ conjours up horrid thoughts of balding dads harping on about on some slap-and-tickle they got 20 years ago. Or, at least, it did, because at least on tonight’s evidence the AJ Moore Band are hell-bent on dragging the term out of the doldrums.
Displaying some nifty finger-picking, AJ sounds a little like John Martyn on the acoustic numbers, with a strong and controlled delivery that cuts through even when the other instruments attempt to drown him out. The chords verge on jazz in places, making things more compelling than bands of similar ilk.
The sharp-as-darts backing band play with great ease, taking turns to wig-out on impressive solos that stretch into new territory, not just roll over the chromatic scales. Even the bass solo (usually the point where the audience push up some Zs) grabs your attention. Add some considered lyrics to the mix covering adverse subjects such as the death of a friend from Parkinson's and you have sounds fit for a field's worth of festival-goers, let alone the Wilmington Arms. ‘Two Days Away’ particularly stands out as being a potential anthem next summer.
Folk singers don’t usually bring an ensemble to gigs, so it’s surprising when French horn, trumpet, trombone, violin, cello and keyboard players all come strolling onto the stage to join the fun. Amphibic play delicate songs with interesting arrangements for the variety of accompanying instruments on stage. These combine well with thought-provoking lyrics from a singer with something important to say about the difficulties of modern relationships with lovers and family members. The sound is reminiscent of Don McLean, if he had a backing orchestra assisting him.
Generally I try to avoid mentioning where an artist is from when describing their music. Geographical location shouldn’t have any regard as to whether the material is good or not. Yet, I’ve noticed of late that when I hear artists of Irish descent there’s a theme of simple yet effective arrangements to the music, combined with strong melodic tones that really connect on a deeper level and gives an instant connection of familiarity to the songs. So it’s no surprise to me when I hear the dulcut tones of the singer’s southern Irish accent in between numbers and a cog in my head fits neatly into place.
A few solo guitar numbers makes me think the ensemble could have been utilised better, but it's a very enjoyable evening all the same. Well done Musicborn Rising for hosting such a fine line-up.
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