Julie and I drove to Kings’ Cross tonight at the invitation of songwriter Rob Finlay to catch his band at the legendary Water Rats. I had reviewed Rob’s releases in The Musician magazine (“He has the ability to weave unconventional elements into familiar genres”) and he had kindly remembered this. We would also have the chance to hear the contemporary material of activist/musician, MIRI.
Imagine our surprise as we waited in the venue’s front bar, when we spot Julie’s cousin Andy Hayes appear from downstairs. It transpired that Andy was a friend of Rob’s, unbeknown to us, and this immediately added to the evening’s enjoyment.
Rob was appearing with a quality four-piece line up – electric bass, drums and lead guitar – and was soon in fine voice thanks to a selection of songs from his album releases: Sunset, darkness, sunrise; Half-heard; and These words aren’t meant for me.
A fine two hours of crafted writing and playing in the confines of a venue that had previously played host to debut London appearances by Bob Dylan, the Pogues (when the pub was called The Pindar of Wakefield) and Oasis in 1994.
Marvellous to meet Rob after the gig and our thanks to everyone we met on a memorable night.
