live review ~ 'good vibes for terri hooley' ~ fundraiser, limelight, belfast

by 18:21

In a heartwarming tribute to Northern Ireland's Godfather of punk, last night saw some of this countries best songwriters gather for a memorable night in the Limelight.

Headlined by Ash frontman Tim Wheeler, (fresh from the release of his debut solo album), the sold out audience were treated to a series of memorable performances, most notably from the stunning Bronagh Gallagher, who's voice continues to defy the passing of time, as she sounded better than ever.

To open an evening of this stature would always require a certain level of energy and charisma, perhaps going some way to explain the emergence of the awesome Verse Chorus Verse (pseudonym of  former ASIWIFA guitarist Tony Wright) , who provided a set of typical verve. Upbeat and affirming, Verse Chorus Verse's rough vocals and powerful songs filled the venue, showing his professionalism whilst remaining genuinely grateful for such an opportunity. Everything from his trademark movement on stage, to his childhood tales of buying records from Good Vibrations (and indeed finding his moniker on a Nirvana album suggested to him by Mr Hooley himself) acted as an appropriate and entertaining start to the evening.

He was followed by the vaudeville stylings of Duke Special, who provided a set of daring Victorian undertones and dark piano. Not scared to literally batter his instrument, Special's unique theatrics were enthralling from the outset; even if at times it detracts from the magnificent piano playing which form the basis of his act. Culminating in a brilliant cover of The Magnetic Fields cult track 'Andrew In Drag', Duke Special looked incredibly comfortable back on the big stage, it was refreshing to see him back up there.

By the time Tired Pony's Iain Archer took to the stage, proceedings were well underway and the crowd finally seemed up for it. A sensational performance of tracks taken mainly from his album 'To The Pine Roots', saw Archer with just his acoustic guitar. Though this can often leave an artist badly exposed, the opposite must be said for Archer, as his guitar playing and the strength of his voice were highlighted beautifully by the likes of 'Everest' and 'Black Mountain Quarry'. Bringing bandmate Bronagh Gallagher on for a finalé of the glorious ''I Am The Landslide', it begs the question as to why Archer doesn't gig more regularly on his own. Though having said this, looking after teenage sensation Jake Bugg may be time consuming enough...

Little Matador's Nathan Connolly and Dave Magee then gave their acoustic interpretation of the alt-rock bands heavier tunes, surly no easy task. Calling upon memories of 'Nirvana Unplugged' for inspiration, songs like the pulsating 'Shatter' had a new swagger in what is a fairly intimate stage for a band of their size. Clearly enjoying themselves, the banter between the band and audience was almost as entertaining as the music itself, though once again Bronagh Gallagher stepped in to elevate the performance to new heights ~ bravely stepping in for the ill Garry Lightbody to sing an emotional 'Chasing Cars'.

As the last line's of Gary Lightbody's singalong masterpiece faded out, on came former Energy Orchard frontman Bap Kennedy. Having shed his 'indie rebel' skin long ago, Kennedy's roots are now firmly set in the country mold, though that didn't hinder his performance in any way. With a solid band around him, Kennedy now channels much of the same sound as Steve Earl, who of course asked  a young Energy Orchard to support him on a string of dates in the early 90's after stumbling across them in a North London pub. Measured, controlled and never off key, it was a performance of integrity from a local hero.

The night then came to an end with Tim Wheeler, beloved by the crowd before he even opened his mouth. Treating the crowd to acoustic performances of 'Oh Yeah', 'Kung Fu' and of course, 'Girl From Mars', was a humble move from an artist who has just released a stunning debut album in it's own right. Festive renditions of songs he wrote with London based-singer Emmy The Great ('Christmas Day (I Wish I Was Surfing)' & 'Jesus The Reindeer' respectively) went down brilliantly, but undoubtedly the highlight of the set and possibly the entire evening was yet to come. A full band rendition of Terri Hooley's favorite song 'Be My Baby' by The Ronnette's (led by Bronagh Gallagher) and The Undertones 'Teenage Kicks' saw the venue in full voice.

A fitting tribute to Terri Hooley and one that will certainly not be forgotten anytime soon.

Taylor Johnson

top 3 ~ best irish tracks of 2014

by 10:14

Well here it is. Encore NI's top 3 best tracks of 2014. As always, we must stress that this list has been compiled to celebrate the Northern Irish music scene and the amazing acts which make it what it is. After an exhausting month of writing, listening and changing the final positions more times than we care to remember, this is our official top three best tracks of 2014.

Agree? Disagree? Please let us know via our Twitter page (@EncoreNI) and Facebook!

Our aim is always to promote the local scene; If you know any bands which should have made the cut, please get in touch. Here's the list so far...

25. BLOOM - Tropical Edge Of The Storm
24. Malibu Shark Attack - Better Off As Friends
23. Oh Volcano - Oceans
22. Paper Man - Like TV
21. Matthew Duly - Ghost In Your Memory
20. Adebisi Shank - Mazel Tov
19. This Is Me Dead - Vega
18. Treehome - Keep Our Loving Discreet
17. Hot Cops - Origami
16. Autumns - Cold War
15. His New Atlas - His Young
14. Hurdles - France
13. Ciaran Lavery - Shame
12. Moscow Metro - Spirit Of A City
11. Serotonin - Cleanse Me

10. Meb Jon Sol - Everyone Has A Secret Song
9. Wonder Villains - Marshall
8. The Couth - Down By The River
7. Echo Raptors - Feel It In Your Heart Again
6. Aaron Shanley - Real Thing
5. The Late Twos - Lana True
4. Joshua Burnside - Catalina

...

3. Hot Cops - Kenzie's Farmhouse

The only band on this list to have featured more than once, Hot Cops have came out of nowhere to become one of the best bands in the country. Their explosive debut EP (followed by the erratic, pulsating brilliance of new single 'Origami') made it clear that Hot Cops were a supremely talented band. Three tracks of equal excellence, encased in a tomb of indie-noise rock and a shattered frame of mind. Bursting with angst and genius, 'Kenzie's Farmhouse' is the sort of track that makes you want to thrash against a barrier, forgetting who you are and how you got here.

Occasionally you get the impression that Hot Cops don't quite realise how brilliant they are. Perhaps they do, though it doesn't seem like it. Either way, whether they like it or not, (and you suspect they don't) Hot Cops are writing anthems for the underclass. For those who can't quite put it into words themselves, Hot Cops put it in verse and chorus. A special band.

For fans of: Nirvana, Radiohead
Expect in 2015: Everything & Anything



2. In An Instant - Lovers Apart

At number two, it's another young band and another EP opener. The stunning 'Lovers Apart' encapsulates all that make Bangor's latest prodigies so exciting. A dramatic breakdown, an electronic backdrop and frontman Mark Hegan's entrancing vocals at full strength. The sound made on this first recording is only beaten by the bands live performance, itself a spectacle to behold. Though you could have chosen any of the tracks from 'A Light You Know And Love', it's this dynamic opener which sets the standard. Now off to dream it all up again, In An Instant seem already well on their way.

For fans of: Snow Patrol, U2
Expect in 2015: Their status as headliners fully established




1. A Plastic Rose - Someone's Daughter

The term 'legends' is thrown around a lot in modern life. It's infiltrated our everyday vocabulary, when it was once spared only for the great amongst us, those who have achieved something. For Sligo born (mostly), Belfastian's A Plastic Rose however, no other description will suffice. Through various EP's, 2 albums and countless shows the band that reminded us that all we know and love will die have earned their place in our hearts. Now finally home to give the Belfast music scene the, as one fan put it, "kick up the arse it needs", there is no denying that Belfast never did fill the gap left by the alt-rock heroes. Which brings us to 'Someone's Daughter'. When APR began releasing new singles for album number two (the awesome, Flickering Light Of An Inner War). Encore NI were keen to pronounce it some of the bands best work, and it is. But why Someone's Daughter? Well, for one thing, it see's the bands trademark blend of noise and melody in perfect harmony. From Ian McHugh's overlying riffs, to the songs screaming intro, the enthralling nature of 'Someone's Daughter' is evident from the opening strums of a guitar. Lyrically, front man Gerry Norman touches a raw nerve, though it may not always be evident. 'There's no God in my skies, just your love and protecting eyes'.

Praised by Radio One amongst others and back to the relief of everyone in Northern Ireland. Nothing looks beyond the grasp of A Plastic Rose. Even if we are still waiting to find out what it means when you fall asleep screaming...


For fans of: Biffy Clyro, Million Dead
Expect in 2015: Top billings, for everything 

Taylor Johnson

top twenty five ~ best irish tracks of 2014 ~ 10 - 4

by 08:02

Having kept you in suspense for frankly far longer than necessary, it's now time to reveal Encore NI's top ten best tracks of 2014. It's been incredibly difficult narrowing down a years worth of quality tunes into one definitive list; hopefully our twenty five choices reflect the eclectic, hardworking and passionate heart of the Northern  Irish music scene and that if you've been reading the entrants so far, that you may have discovered a new artist in the process. We can't ask for any more than that. If you feel an injustice has been done and that we've left out a sure fire contender, please join the debate on Facebook and Twitter. We always love to hear your thoughts!

Have a fantastic Christmas & continue to support the local scene ~ you create tomorrow's legends.

Thanks for everything, 

Enjoy the music.

Taylor
Encore NI


10. Meb Jon Sol - Everyone Has A Secret Song

This heart-rending ode to love won and lost was the emotional pinnacle of a debut album long overdue. Formerly of local indie-pop legends Colenso Parade, their frontman has grown into a powerful performer in his own right, this Smith's inspired acoustic track a hidden gem amongst 'Southpaw Niños' avalanche of melody. Opening old wounds has never sounded so good.

For fans of: The Pogues, The Waterboys
Expect in 2015: A follow up album 

Download the song on Itunes here, or listen for free on Spotify.


9. Wonder Villains - Marshall

Bright, shimmering art-pop in it's purist form, there is perhaps no band in the country that can claim to represent the modern face of Northern Ireland like Derry's Wonder Villains. From nostalgic tales of swapping little brothers for Pokemon cards (who didn't attempt that at least once?), to dreaming of driving into the sunset in a Ferrari, the lyricism which flows so effortlessly from Eimear and Cheylene is beloved for it's relatable overtones and tenacious optimism. The fact that it's wrapped so delicately in a blanket of 80's synth-pop and feel good riffs only adds to the appeal. Here, 'Marshall's entrancing bass line can't fail to make you dance.

For fans of: Best Coast, Echosmith
Expect in 2015: A UK tour & brand new fan base.



8. The Couth - Down By The River

2014 was a huge year for The Couth, culminating in an EP which in no way achieved the extended airplay it deserved. Channeling their surf-rock roots and adding an anthemic punk streak was a brave move, but ultimately one that has benefited Lisburn's most exiting band in years. 'Down By The River' is a football terraced chant of rebellion, youth and having the time of your life on nothing more than a carry out and a group of mates.

For fans of: The Ramones, The Strokes
Expect in 2015: Relentless gigging

Hear the track on Reverbnation here

7. Echo Raptors - Feel It In Your Heart Again

This seven minute belter from Belfast's mod-rock patriarchs is still technically awaiting it's recorded debut, but having cemented it's place in Echo Raptors electric set throughout the course of the year we couldn't leave it out. Driven by lead guitarist Vince Caddell's sterling guitar work, there's no denying the influence of psych bands past, but that is in no way a criticism, far from it. Instead it simply reinforces what we already know; that Echo Raptors are a band unafraid to wear their hearts on their sleeves, whilst brimming with originality and verve.

'Feel It In Your Heart' looks destined to close huge gigs in the future, even if we're made to wait for a debut album release.

For fans of: Stone Roses, Tame Impala
Expect in 2015: Record deal whispers...



6. Aaron Shanley - Real Thing

One of the finest singer-songwriters to emerge out of Northern Ireland in memory, Aaron Shanley left a gaping hole in the local scene when he left to continue his craft in London. Now home after a successful run of shows, he recently unveiled the sequel to the much loved 'Bedroom Tapes' EP. Clearly in a much happier place, Shanley's songs now glow with a positive introspection, reflecting on the joys that love can bring, rather than it's all to familiar pain. Though we don't quite expect to see the man who wrote 'Sometimes People Just Fall Outta Love' to be cartwheeling on street corners and taking salsa lessons anytime soon, songs like the uplifting 'Real Thing' make a welcome addition to the Aaron Shanley arsenal (his trademark style in no way altered, we might add). Released briefly last month to coincide with an important date, 'Real Thing' will be available to download early next year.

For fans of: Bright Eyes, Elliot Smith 
Expect in 2015: An abundance of new material


5. The Late Twos - Lana True

The leading light of Belfast's once flagging indie-scene, it's no secret that The Late Twos mission to pick up where Pete Doherty's Libertines and the like left off in the mid-2000's has been a largely successful one. Flanked by a Kasabianesque football fraternity of dedicated supporters, to experience The Late Twos live is an altogether different experience to almost every other local band in the country. Though 'Lana True' may not posses the 'av'it!' mentality of their punchier singles, a gentle beauty remains in a track never short of heart. A 21st century waltz, a song like 'Lana True' is a very rare occurrence and could simply not be overlooked in the top 5 songs of the year.

For fans of: Arctic Monkeys, The View
Expect in 2015: Greater exposure//Bigger venues


4. Joshua Burnside - Catalina
Another massively gifted songwriter, Joshua Burnside's unique acoustic stylings ensure that he will never be an artist of passive acceptance. For all those who really feel the enormous outpourings of emotion within Burnside's broken melodies, you will undoubtedly fall in love with it.

'Catalina', a self confessed travelling song, tells the enigmatic story of taking all you can and simply getting out. Stunning violin flows alongside Burnside's beautifully weathered vocal and that enchanting riff. Glorious.

For fans of: Bob Dylan, Kurt Vile
Expect in 2015: A big move // Debut album

Buy 'Catalina' here.



Top 3 coming soon!

Taylor Johnson

top twenty five ~ best irish tracks of 2014 ~ 15 - 11

by 06:35

Moving ever closer to the top 10, here's our rundown of the best Irish tracks to emerge this year // 15-11. Join the debate on Twitter @EncoreNI...

15. His New Atlas - His Young

In an incredible year for the Armagh singer-songwriter, Eoghan O'Hagan has successfully made the jump from promising young up-start, to established local talent. Developing the brooding potential of his earlier EP's, 'His Young' is the result of tear-stained soul searching, dark memories and the kind of climactic chorus you always felt he was capable of. Now building his fan base in England, how much longer will Belfast be able to hold on to His New Atlas?

For fans of: Jeff Buckley, Daughter 
Expect in 2015: More tours, releases and record label tug-of-wars.



14. Hurdles - France

Another product of the Scratch My Progress development program, Hurdles return to their indie pedestal with a new guitarist, a funkier sound and refreshed optimism. Playing off an R'n'B guitar groove, 'France' is a track more suited to European dancefloors than the close quarters gigs the band cut their teeth with. No doubt inspired somewhat by Daft Punks revival, France is a song for the here and now, just like it's authors. 

For fans of: Daft Punk, Superfood
Expect in 2015: A long awaited follow up to debut EP 'Where To Start'.



13. Ciaran Lavery - Shame

3 Million streams on Spotify alone does not lie, and so the hype machine is in no way malfunctioning when you consider the buzz around Belfast's Ciaran Lavery. A singer-songwriter of Damien Rice delicacy's, but thankfully, with his own glacier voice, 'Shame' is the narrow best on an EP of startling quality. 

For fans of: Damien Rice, Iain Archer, Stephen Fretwell 
Expect in 2015: A major support slot//Breakthrough 



12. Moscow Metro - Spirit Of A City 

This Summer release from the Limerick four-piece was everything but, a brooding, swirling mass of dark, yet melodic post-rock. Channeling the atmospheric glow of Depeche Mode and the hopelessness of Joy Division, Moscow Metro simmer with a perfect blend of noise and feeling. 

For fans of: Joy Division, Interpol
Expect in 2015: A host of festival appearances.



11. Serotonin - Cleanse Me

Despite lacking the bite of newer singles 'Paint' and 'Peel', there's just something about this energetic opener we couldn't get out of our heads this year. Be it the intriguing lyrical content or that sterling guitar riff which runs through the tracks core, 'Cleanse Me' remains an important weapon in the Serotonin arsenal. "Don't be alarmed..."

For fans of: Sonic Youth, Fugazi





Who should make the top ten? Let us know your thoughts on Twitter & Facebook.


Taylor Johnson

top twenty five ~ best irish tracks of 2014 ~ 20 - 16

by 07:58

Continuing on in our rundown of the best tracks released in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland this year. Here we take a look at some newer acts to have broken through alongside our more established talent. Join the debate on Twitter @EncoreNI.

20. Adebisi Shank - Mazel Tov

Wexford's 'Adebisi Shank' have sadly passed through Northern Ireland largely unnoticed by the mainstream; a credit surely to their low maintenance approach and laid back personas. In a musical world not short of X-Factor fakery, it's refreshing that a band as humble as the power-trio can go through three quality albums, explosive live performances and remain true to the underground which raised them. This beauty, taken from their third album (The superbly titled, 'This Is The Third Album Of A Band Called Adebisi Shank') will live on past their sad recent decision to split.


For fans of: And So I Watch You From Afar
Expect In 2015: n/a



19. This Is Me Dead - Vega

'This Is Me Dead' have come out of nowhere to earn themselves a spot on this list and intrigue the minds of local music professionals in the process. Though the unexpected release of new EP 'Vega' generated the type of hype closer associated to young upstarts, the Belfast band have actually been around a while. Sneering, American indie falls over Editors influenced riffs, concluding in an angst-ridden concoction of something we're desperate to thrash around to.


For fans of: Interpol, Editors
Expect in 2015: A load of live appearances. 



18. Treehome - Keep Our Loving Discreet

Ahh Treehome. Discovered largely through their excellent performances in The Pavilion Bar's 'Battle Of The Bands' this year, the funk driven teenagers proved their recording worth through this stylish single. Not shy to a mass stage invasion, this young group have achieved more than they could have imagined in their first years together ~ from radio airplay, to gig requests across the country. Big things ahead.


For fans of: Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nile Rodgers 
Expect in 2015: A debut EP & subsequent tour.




17. Hot Cops - Origami 


Blistering riffs, explosive drumming and that haunting vocal. Maudlin, yet invigorating. This is the sound of Belfast's Hot Cops, this track coming from their time with the Scratch My Progress talent development program. "She says that I'm her bible...I always wondered what she meant by that..."


For fans of: Pavement, Pixies
Expect in 2015: Explosions.



16. Autumns - Cold War

This patchwork noise-rock, courtesy of Autumns, has all the hall marks of an undergrad favorite. Interwoven grunge is played beneath a Sonic Youth drone, as Christian Donaghey's disjointed vocal somehow pulls everything together. A snapshot of bigger things to come.

For fans of: Sonic Youth, Slowdive
Expect in 2015: A gig in a warehouse. 



Who should be in our top 15? Join the debate now @EncoreNI and on Facebook here.


Taylor Johnson

top twenty five ~ best irish tracks of 2014 ~ 25 to 21

by 08:43

As another great year winds to a close, Encore NI again finds itself reflecting on a host of positives for the local music scene. From a record number of new bands receiving recognition across the pond, to a live scene revitalized by young bands demanding (and earning) stage time, we want to now celebrate some of the tracks that have made this year as good as it was. Not even the loss of our beloved Glasgowbury could dampen our local bands and artists spirit, as new genres blossomed amongst our indie-rock heritage. Unable to confine our list to 20 tracks (believe us, we tried!), over the coming weeks we will reveal what we believe to be the best tracks to come out of the country this year. Disagree with us? Get involved in the debate on twitter ~ send your suggestions to @EncoreNI.  


25. BLOOM ~ 'Tropical Edge Of The Storm'

Hazily fading into existence as easily as one may fade out, Belfast's first and only, avant garde Psyche-Blues outfit have came out of nowhere to become one of the countries best underground prospects. Raised on a diet of Beatles, Tame Impala and The Doors, BLOOM's 60's elements are never hidden away amongst their tidal waves of synth and tension building bass guitar. Never afraid to let their music wander, you can expect BLOOM songs to last anything up to half an hour or longer,  'Tropical Edge Of The Storm', being no different. An instrumental piece sonically detailing the passing of a storm, this track wouldn't look out of place on the new Pink Floyd album.

For fans of: Pink Floyd, Brian Jonestown Massacre
Expect in 2015: A cult following to develop.



24. Malibu Shark Attack ~ 'Better Off As Friends'


Probably the worlds only 'Trans-Atlantic' hip-hop duo, the story of Malibu Shark Attack is a beautiful tale of two men on opposite sides of the world, who love music. The brain-child of legendary Northern Irish producer Rocky O'Reilly, his collaboration with Atlanta's 'Tribe One' culminated in glorious sonic landscapes of 80's synth-pop, thrown alongside a rapper of effortless flow and charisma. This opening track from the bands debut album is the highlight of something we certainly hope we haven't seen the last of yet.

For fans of: Gorillaz, Los Campesinos
Expect in 2015: A major support slot somewhere down the road...which may just lead to something huge.



23. Oh Volcano ~ 'Oceans'

This catchy single from former General Fiasco frontman Owen Strathern's new band, is the culmination of months locked away with a synth and an array of 80's records. Drenched in sun filled melody, 'Oceans' groove and drone complexities make for a compelling mix. Somehow, it sounds even bigger in a live setting, as proved during their dates supporting the mammoth Twenty One Pilots on the Irish dates of their World Tour.

For Fans of: The Cure, Arcade Fire
Expect In 2015: A UK tour.



22. Paper Man ~ 'Like TV'

Moving away from the cleaner angst of debut EP 'After Effects', Paper Man's foray into an altogether heavier sound produced further reassuring results. Follow up 'Midfield Modern Argument' again showcased frontman Alistair Greyson's moving lyricism, combining with the altogether tighter sound of a band never scared of offending the mainstream. 'This conscious stream, making me scream..this is the first time, stop screaming in my mind'. Their recent split now heralds the emergence of new band 'The Sea, Close By', whilst drummer David Hunter considers his musical future.


For Fans of: Smashing Pumpkins, Million Dead
Expect in 2015: 'The Sea, Close By' to start things all over again ~ a brand new sound for drummer Dave.



21. Matthew Duly ~ 'Ghost In Your Memory'

Having performed at such venues as our own Ulster Hall, the Empire and Birmingham's monstrous 'LG Arena' (with band 'Lipstick Lizards), you'd think the name 'Matthew Duly would be written into local music consciousness by now. Sadly, this is not yet the case, though on the basis of this year the Whitehead native is not far off. Capping off a series of quality performances across the country by winning a place on the coveted 'Scratch My Progress'  talent program, the only solo singer-songwriter to do so, Duly is earning his space on the local music scene in his own right, having played in local bands for years. This maudlin ode to the passing of time is surly his most accomplished to date, with a beautiful chorus.

For fans of: The Shins, Matt Corby
Expect in 2015: A long awaited debut EP.




Who should be in our top 20? Join the debate now @EncoreNI and on Facebook here.


Taylor Johnson

live review ~ morrissey ~ 3 arena, dublin

by 05:24

To review a man as influential on ones life as Steven Patrick Morrissey is a difficult task indeed. To act as an impartial judge upon a musician who's words have acted as a guide to life through a persons most formative years, who's very thoughts mean more than religion and who's spotlight shines brighter than any other, (celestial or otherwise) is near impossible. Regardless, we cannot resist to comment on one of musics all time greatest icons as he played Dublin's 3 Arena.

First off, A Morrissey concert is much more than a concert. We will stop short of calling it a spiritual experience (though it truly was), and will instead focus on the performance aspects. Morrissey can still sing. Beautifully. Each and every song was sung with their authors passion and intensity, just as they should be. Opening with the breathtaking 'The Queen Is Dead'  the Manchester born-legend was as assured and confident as always, stalking the stage with a fervour which only accentuated his class.

In past shows on this tour he has been criticised for focusing too heavily on new material ~ we must ask, why? Here each new composition radiated with an intoxicating glow; and while it also helps that 'World Peace Is None Of Your Business' is an album of real warmth and charm, the individual tracks stand alone brilliantly. 'The Bullfighter Dies', 'Kick The Bride Down The Aisle', 'Staircase At The University'...each one was sung back to him with as much love as his most treasured classics.

This tour has also reminded any in doubt of Morrissey's place in people's hearts that there is no fear of his influence dimming. Grown men and woman alike cried like children upon his stroll to centre stage and continued to throughout. People hurled themselves towards the barriers in the desperate hope of a single touch, at the expense of almost certainly being kicked out. Poetry in motion, Morrissey continues to make the stage his home, within which he can do as he damn well pleases. A horrifying video of animal slaughter accompanied 'Meat Is Murder', though this is a cause most noble and fully justified. 'Asleep's sweet lullaby marked a heartrending reflection on the inner anger at the universe which has not burned out over time. Even 'Everyday Is Like Sunday's magnificent crescendo cannot be marked out as a highlight, as there were simply too many in a night which never fell below awe and musical excellence. Not once did Morrissey's Baritone vocal whimper, not once did his desire waver. He's a man who is, and will always be changing lives.

Ripping off his shirt to bid Dublin a farewell (hopefully not his last), this charming man will, in perfect irony, live forever.

Taylor Johnson


Powered by Blogger.