Attending my favourite venue is always a treat and the Acapela Studio on the outskirts of Cardiff proved the perfect intimate setting for legendary songwriter Chris Difford,who’s turning into a regular performer at the Studio.
First up was a young performer with an impressive resume as well having the musical chops passed down through the family, being the grandson of folk icons Richard and Linda Thompson.
Zak Hobbs, an unassuming, likeable chap produced a short but entertaining set showing off his undoubtable guitar talent featured in some lovely crafted songs, one of which told the tale of a former school friend turned super model with the audience having to guess before the big reveal at the end.
Having viewed the talented Squeeze man Difford in various guises over the years, it’s this intimate setting that really highlights his considerable songwriting talent.
Lately his writing is firmly set in reminiscing his happy childhood on the streets of Depford. Of the friends he’s known and some of whom he’s lost.
Mixing his set with classic songs from his days with Squeeze plus solo songs like the beautifully nostalgic ‘Parents’ his patter and tales of a quite remarkable career had the audience in awe, and stitches.
His life ticks most of the boxes when it comes to Rock n Roll excess. A career of ultimate highs and crashing lows and not a little miffed at having 3 number two’s and missing out on the elusive chart topper.
Yet his turn around is quite remarkable as he lives in a world of extremes, one day it could be Madison Square Garden, followed by a gig in front of a few hundred, both equally entertaining and no doubt as rewarding.
But like mentioned previously, it’s the intimate setting that the true-genius of Difford is revealed.
With the helpful backing of Zak Hobbs on guitar and backing vocals plus the brilliant addition of Melvyn Duffy on pedal steel guitar which superbly completed the songs both old and new.
Squeeze classics ‘Tempted’ ‘Pulling Mussels’ and ‘Up The Junction’ all sounded fresh in the smaller setting, whilst a new classic in waiting’Yellow Rose’ was strong in what was a set packed full of hits.
With good friend and bandmate Glen Tilbrook also playing the Acapela at the weekend and with a Squeeze visit to Cardiff set for November, the Squeeze-loving public of South Wales are very lucky indeed.
Review AW