Gabrielle Pietrangelo

I went to see Jason at the Cluny in Newcastle on Monday. I’ve been looking forward to seeing him for months. He certainly didn’t disappoint. The evening was a night of music to treasure. He can evoke melancholy and pure joy in equal measure. There is nobody like him. He’s a musical genius either with Grandaddy, BNQT or just him, his piano and of course his special sounds. I can’t put into words how he makes me feel apart from my heart sings when I listen to him. The crowd were very appreciative and more importantly were listening to every note in awe! Still buzzing at the thought of this gig. I travelled and stayed overnight to catch Jason and was so pleased I didn’t let the opportunity slip as it was such a memorable night of purely wonderful, original music. The support from Northern Ireland was a very special man too. All in all a fantastic night. Thank you.

Arizona rock outfit Giant Sand have had the opportunity to play alongside a number of celebrated artists over their three decade career including Neko Case, Juliana Hatfield, Vicki Peterson, PJ Harvey and Steve Wynn. This evening though it is all about the large array of musicians led onstage by Howe Gelb. They have been releasing albums and touring to promote tirelessly since the debut 'Valley of Rain' in 1985.

This dedication has been rewarded in a cult-like following who show equal dedication to turn up and cheer the band's expansive and complex live operation time and time again. Howe is not a particularly charismatic frontman yet he is an expert conductor and he keeps every musician onstage in time as they showcase the very finest selections of their discography. The setlist appears to be a crash course for anybody unaware of Giant Sand and goes over well as they demonstrate variation and skill before a crescendo of 'Tumble and Tear' receives the largest cheers thus far.