Live
Horace Andy : Boisdale Of Canary Wharf 12/11/2018
It's ironic back in the early 90's the then reasonably unknown Massive Attack approached Horace Andy, one of Jamaica's finest reggae singers to join them on their debut album which proved fruitful and hugely successful but to see this legend on his own terms is a rare and special thing and tonight was first of five nights to see him solo.Starting the gig,backing band Dub Ansante,kicked off what turned out to be a lilting,uplifting rumble of a performance with 'Theme From The Godfather' before Horace,decked in a fetching purple suit pitched up and ramped up the reggae to a bubbling frenzy.
Andy has lost none of his honeyed high throated vocals and the sound was surprisingly good for this vast space nestled in the heart of Canary Wharf.The bass was deep the guitar slinky,the drums crisp and the trombone well, barped sympathectically.
'Money Is The Root Of Evil' sounded particularly good as the band found its stride and the warm vibes Horace emitted dedicating songs to his children and all and sundry soon won the crowd over.It all seemed so natural maybe Boisdales can be become (amongst other things) a reggae venue,no seriously ( I can't name one in London) it shouldn't work on paper but trust me it does!
The rootsy sounding You Are My Angel' another HA classic was a particular highlight and his rewind selecter approach to some of his bigger hits such as 'Ain't No Sunshine' temporarily turned Boisdales into an ilegal rave reggae style what they use to refer to as blues parties! 'Skylarking' saw some diners get up and boogie but there wasn't much space which is a shame as there is a dance floor that could be utilised after dining,however the will of the people won over and dancing between tables prevailed.The ensemble playing was fiery and the guest toaster Rankin Joe added further fuel to this special reggae feast.
It's all unchartered territory but branching out and experimenting with other genres is certainly working.Tonight was celebratory and Horace and band were in fine fettle catch them all this week one down four to go til friday 12th Nov.Eat drink and be merry and get your roots and culture all under one roof, it's a great night out!
PHOTOS EMRYS BAIRD
Words Emrys Baird
