There are nights that linger in the memory and that nestle over time to bring a smile when remembering that warm sense of belonging. This was one of those nights, the return of a consummate musician, an intimate setting in the main room of Whelan’s, and an audience who were completely wrapped up in the magic that was delivered from this skilled performer.
John was finishing a short Irish tour in support of his latest release, GATHERINGS, which is a look back down the path, with ten songs revisited from the first ten years of his music career. He talks about making a decision in 2005 to give up his part-time jobs in order to concentrate on a full-time career in music, the journey that has unfolded and the wisdom gained from the experiences of a travelling troubadour.
A debut album arrived in 2006 and The Fox and the Monk began a steady rise to the pinnacle of the modern folk summit, a place where he now resides and in which he is comfortably ensconced in the lofty environs. His guitar technique is hugely impressive and his accomplished skillset has been honed over many years of playing live around the world. Over the years of seeing John perform, his vocal delivery has reached a stage where it entwines seamlessly with his guitar playing and the chords wrap around the words in such a sweetly sonorous feel.
From the GREAT LAKES album John selects Freezing Winds Of Change, Town To Town, Great Lakes, and Salty and Sweet. The latter song is one where John directs the audience to sing harmony vocals on the melody and it’s a lovely moment of communal bonding in the room. With a self-effacing humour John tells stories of the road and of the career he has spun since attending music studies in the city of Liverpool, through to his current status as a guitar virtuoso, with online content that is worthy of your time.
Songs from Headlong are also included and Far Too Good is a highlight, along with the superbly delivered Joanna, which includes a section from the Van Morrison song Tupelo Honey and another opportunity for the audience to join on the chorus lines. Hummingbird and Willy Moore also feature, along with Trick Of the Light, The World Turns, and Too Good To Be True. John also plays another song Silver Mine from the 2024 album Trick Of the Light and this is dedicated to his daughter. The encore is a song taken from that debut album and Winter is performed with John seated and creating real sorcery from his movement across the fretboard, using the guitar body as a percussive ally, while he makes the strings dance along to the rhythm and melody.
Over a very inspiring ninety minutes, we keep the world outside at bay and revel in the power of music to deliver a soothing balm, with John using his two guitars, various foot pedals and percussion to create some very special memories. He speaks of his genuine love of playing at Whelan’s and the appreciative audience return his warmth in their response throughout this evening of great joy.
Review and photo by Paul McGee