@ Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh, Fri 12 Feb 2016; and
@ ABC2, Glasgow on Wed 2 Mar 2016; and
@ Cafe Drummond, Aberdeen on Fri 4 Mar 2016
Billy Bibby’s break away from the Catfish and the Bottlemen was a brave one, considering the success of his former band. Seeing Bibby on stage proves that he has nothing to fear. Backed by The Wry Smiles, he gives a relaxed showcase of his recent solo efforts, throwing in a token song to pacify any Catfish fans out there.
His sound is recognisable: think a lighter, less inebriated Kings of Leon. Bibby kicks off with an unexpected yet brilliantly chosen cover of Ray Charles’ I Got a Woman, getting even the most reluctant spectators moving. Although he is a solo artist with a backing band, his easy chemistry with The Wry Smiles is a great factor of the performance: people having fun on stage makes the off stage atmosphere so much better. Bibby’s own songs are a peppy antidote to terrible weather, January hangovers and general winter drudgery. The opening riffs of This Kind of Summer, featured on the debut EP Bide Your Time, are particularly reminiscent of teenage summer holidays. The highlight, however, is the slower Believe Me, also on the EP, which shows both Bibby’s lyrical ability and vocal range. It’s not something that you’ve never heard before, but you’d definitely keep the radio on when its playing his songs.
Sneaky Pete’s is the perfect venue for a debut solo tour. The space, or lack thereof, pushes everyone together, so even if you don’t know anyone you feel like you’ve come as a group. Bibby’s frequent and friendly interactions with the crowd enhanced the relaxed, encouraging atmosphere. By the end of the set, you definitely feel as though you know him a bit better. The Wry Smiles also get a shout out for being a noticeably great band without overshadowing Bibby’s vocals. Leaving the comfort of success and recognition takes some guts, but if this gig is anything to go by, Bibby can expect to regain it with his solo mission.