@ Summerhall, Edinburgh on Thu 23 Apr 2015
Nothing Ever Happens Here at Summerhall is certainly doing its best to restore pride in Edinburgh’s live music scene, with a series of varied and eclectic gigs taking place in the Dissection Room within the former Edinburgh University Veterinary School. Occupying the spotlight tonight is Fife resident and Fence Collective regular James Yorkston. He is joined on the bill by Edinburgh based Matt Norris and fellow Fence Collective member Pip Dylan.
Matt Norris kicks off proceedings with a collection of subtle folk songs that set the tone for the evening. He complimented the audience for their silence during his well-received set before making way for the elusive Pip Dylan. Having played only a handful of live shows over the past few years, Pip’s performance is something of a rare luxury. His repertoire includes flamenco, folk, country and bluegrass, and it is the latter two genres that are on display during this enjoyable and memorable performance. The evocative closing Lavender Moon is a definite standout.
Last year James Yorkston released the much celebrated album The Cellardyke Recording and Wassailing Society. The set list tonight comprises songs from this record with a few old familiars thrown in for good measure. Impassioned is the most obvious word to use when describing Yorkston’s style as a performer; however, his songs are littered with humour and wit too, made clear by his relaxed and zealous delivery. The ninety minute set seems far too short, which is a testament to the quality of his extensive and much-loved back catalogue. Too many good songs, not enough time.
Accompanying Yorkston this evening are Jon Thorne on double bass and Emma Smith on violin, adding to the intimacy and closeness of the performance. Backing vocals are provided by former Fence Records honcho the Pictish Trail (also known as Johnny Lynch), whose delivery ensures the haunting and moving songs will stay with the audience well after the music stops and the venue closes its doors for the night.
There are many Nothing Ever Happens Here gigs forthcoming, the next of which is Rozi Plain’s album launch on 1 May.