Christian Moss
admin September 2nd, 2007
Plug & Play 07/08 season at the Penrith Players theatre got off to a great start on Sunday with a good crowd and some great playing from both the headline act and the “Plug and Players”.The traditional open mic slot started the proceedings off with the compere, Andy Johnson playing a lovely melodic solo bass piece, inspired by J. S. Bach. His interweaving of the D minor Toccata with an atmospheric Celtic influenced tune was warmly applauded by the audience. Local guitarist Chris Walker, then joined him on stage for a run through of two instrumental pieces showing a mastery of the fingerboard by Chris with a slow blues number, followed by a more upbeat jazz piece. Both tunes were appreciated by the Plug & Play audience. Ken Wilcock then took to the stage with his Fylde guitar and treated us all with some great finger-picking tunes namely “Rosalee”, “Paddies Green Shamrock Shore” and “Planxty Fanny Powers”. For an encore Ken played a French, gavotte-style piece called “Schottische”. Next up was Andrew Davies who is becoming a more regular face at the PnP sessions. Andrew treated us to four of his own compositions which showed off his Guitar and Harmonica playing and complemented his soft, clear voice as it rode above the music. “The Friend”, “Back of my mind”, “Feel it” with its driving guitar rhythm and “You’ve got something to say” were all well received by the audience. The final act for the open slot was Rob Heron who, fresh from playing at Solfest, treated us all to some awesome playing and singing. “Wouldn’t he”, “Roseville Fair”, John Lennons’ “Cold Turkey” – completely reworked and with some great guitar playing – and “Introspection” all had the audience cheering and clapping. After a short break the stage was then given over to Christian Moss. Having played in Manchester, Newcastle and California, he will shortly be heading off back to America for a tour. Joined on stage by drummer Gavin Warrender, he immediately started interacting and joking with the audience which for me is always a big plus. Lots of “stars” nowadays think you only have to get up on stage, play and get off. Not so. Engaging your audience is a big factor in becoming popular. I just wish this was appreciated more by artistes. Anyway…The set began with “Brick Wall”, from his new album which was launched that evening. Immediately showing off his superbly strong voice and complimentary guitar playing, this song for me is the best on the album. Not all songs had Gavin accompanying on the drums, (well, snare, two cymbals and a tambourine used as a kick drum!) but when he did accompany Christian the playing was excellent. It was just enough to alter the song, but not overpower it, the sign of a great drummer. “Control” “Headwound” and “The Odds” followed, with Christian merrily plugging the new album and laughing and joking with the audience throughout. “Circumvent” and “No Pianos” with its great interaction between guitar and drums followed as, song after song, Christian kept the audience enjoyment levels up. “No connection” the first song he wrote, way way back and “Killing my time” were played with feeling and intensity as was “The Flies”, played on slide Dobro to much applause. Unfortunately he broke his pick so could only give us one song on the Dobro. This was a shame as this gave a glimpse of another side to his compositional work. Finishing off with “Lungful”, again from his album and played without drums, Christian demonstrated that a good song stands by itself. He was called back for a well deserved encore. Clearly surprised to be asked for another song Christian and Gavin deliberated for a few moments. Then with the words “This should be interesting….” they launched into a lively song called “I need” which they performed brilliantly. A long applause followed showing how much the PnP crowd had enjoyed the session.See you all on the 7th October for Clive Carol (don’t miss this one!). Check out the Plug & Play website for details of upcoming gigs. www.plug-play.co.ukKeep it live!! “Open Mike”