First up, this is a great 'band' which includes guitarist Seye, who seldom stood still. The dynamic Gorillaz Sound System drummer Pauli the PSM, whose performance really has to be seen to be belived, bassist Jeff Wootton and keyboardist Mike Smith. Also, what a lovely intimate venue for a global megastar returning to his East End roots.
It's a wet night in the East End but, after a queue down the Mile End Road and a warming beverage we are all ready for the (no support) start at 8.45 pm.
Damon always keeps things in perspective and this was just like, a pleasant way for him to introduce the new band and songs amongst mates on his home turf (any sign of a gig in Colchester next?). For ninety minutes we are treated to a set, turning the pages of Damon's musical career or, as much as can be fitted into ninety minutes together with, the new songs, that already are pretty much old favourites in our subconscious.
Gorillaz, The Good, the Band and the Queen and his other band, the songs flowed expertly so, by the time Kano hit the stage for Clint Eastwood the place was rocking. Lots of gentle moments too, Heavy Seas of Love", which features Brian Eno on the LP (Damon commented that he really hopes Brian will sing the song with him live sometime) was sublime with a gospel choir joining in, as they did on Mr. Tembo (described by someone in the queue outside as Damon's 'Yellow Submarine')
The billboards for the new record 'Everyday Robots' refer to Damon as one of the most important songwriters of his generation'. He certainly continues to climb an eclectic musical route to greatness.
Blur's 'This is a Low' finished the evening with Damon on piano and the ever present strings section. This actually is a new high! A summer of festival shows ahead, do try and catch one, you won't be disappointed.
Set List;
Lonely Press Play
Everyday Robots
Tomorrow Comes Today (Gorillaz)
History Song (The Good, the Bad & the Queen)
Hollow Ponds
Slow Country (Gorillaz)
Kids with Guns (Gorillaz)
Three Changes (The Good, the Bad & the Queen)
You and Me
Photographs (You Are Taking Now)
Kingdom of Doom (The Good, the Bad & the Queen)
Poison (Rocket Juice & the Moon)
Hostiles
El Mañana (Gorillaz)
The History of a Cheating Heart
Out of Time (Blur)
All Your Life (Blur)
Encore:
Clint Eastwood (Gorillaz) with Kano
Mr. Tembo with choir
Heavy Seas of Love with choir
This Is a Low (Blur)
