Fairport were playing in acoustic mode, that is they did not have a drummer with them. Simon Nicol, Dave Pegg, Rick Saunders and Chris Leslie were as impressive as ever. Poor Simon's voice was suffering somewhat, but he soldiered on. This is the second time that I have seen Chris Leslie with the band and he impresses me more and more. The small stage curtailed Rick's usual hyperactive stage runs, but this did not stop him being a usual smiling self and bouncing happily on the spot. Peggy's solid bass bound the whole lot together. The set included old favourites like The Hiring Fair and Crazy Man Michael along with newer numbers from the latest album, Who Knows Where the Time Goes, for instance Close to You and Dangerous. During the break between the two parts of the show the band mingled happily with the audience. A grand evening all round. For us islanders the show finished with Matty Groves and a rip roaring rendition of Dirty Linen. Unfortunately we then had to leave by taxi to catch the car ferry back to the island. I am sure that the gig finished with the traditional Meet on the Ledge. We had another drink on the ferry, were picked up by a friend at East Cowes and got home at around 2 o'clock in the morning. It was worth it.
A great way to start the Christmas break, I can recommend the Brook wholeheartedly as a lovely small venue to enjoy music in. Even though we had to leave slightly early, it also proves that the island is not as isolated as some people think.
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