Music of The High Pennines - Rory Connor at Bojangles
Charles Paxton April 27th, 2008
Rory Connor continued the tradition of combining live performance with fine dining on Friday, April 25, at Appleby’s trendy music cafe, Bojangles. This event, the third in a so far very exciting series organized by Eden’s new multimedia company PhasingHz, was also distinctive in several ways. First it was a chance to hear this up and coming acoustic indie-folk artist in the very convivial circumstances of Appleby’s award-winning music cafe. Secondly it was an opportunity to hear some new songs that will be included in Rory’s forthcoming album and furthermore it was the first time that we have seen a single artist performing here.
Rory was kind enough to provide our first five minute video interview before the event to explain who he is and to tell us about some of his music. Please, see the video below.
Rory Connor at Cafe Bojangles, April 25, 2008
Five minute chat with Rory Connor before the show
It struck me after the event that it might not be a bad idea to properly introduce the acts to the audience just before the show, so that everybody knows who and what they’re listening to. I think it would make the experience a whole lot more meaningful and perhaps a bit less of a battle for attention for the performer.
This evening the musical soiree comprised nine songs divided roughly into two acts of about 20 minutes, ample opportunity for Alston’s increasingly famous singer/songwriter to demonstrate his characteristic vocal finesse and the kind of live performance aplomb that has earned him lavish praise in the music press, a growing following in the northwest and an ‘Ammy’ award for best live performer. I do admire singer-songwriters. Hearing someone do a really good cover is great in its own way and requires talent - but hearing original music direct from the author is like sipping a good wine in its very vineyard, or eating a slice of fine cheese overlooking Wensleydale.
This evening at Cafe Bojangles we were at the Rory Connor well-spring, and all the grandeur of the sweeping Pennines was condensed in the clear sparkling waters of acoustic indie folk that he outpoured for us.
Rory opened well with a superb introductory song “Won’t Stay For Long”. Check out the video on this one, folks. Here Rory’s fine, soulful voice and skillful guitar work are very nicely demonstrated. Rory’s vocals are powerfully emotive, distinctively his own, but reminiscent of Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder. Rory’s music is drawn from the depths of his passionate soul-well.
The crowd obviously enjoyed themselves thoroughly too and seemed to have a great deal to say to one another! Though it is very much up to the artist to engage the crowd, I would say that talking loudly all the way through a performance is disrespectful.
Rory performing his original composition ‘Won’t Stay For Long’ at Appleby’s hip venue, Cafe Bojangles.
Rory followed with Waiting, Butterfly, Secrets, Turn Round, She Looks Good in Yellow, For The Last Time, Half Full Glass and Falling From Trees to provide a very well rounded set. Keep a look out for that lass wearing yellow, because if she inspires music this good, she must be quite a looker!
For more on Rory including the latest news check out his myspace.
For more on Bojangles including reservations check their site.
Check here for more PhasingHz events.
Don’t miss Jon Astral playing at Penrith’s No.15 on May 22 or playing at Bojangles next on May 30 with support from the excellent Ethan Thomas!