Review of VerseChorusVerse at Whelans on November 10th 2011
Review: Deirdre Harrison
Photos: Kieran Frost
The homely Whelans Upstairs Venue was the scene for the first headline performance of VerseChorusVerse. With Christmas decorations (yes, already) and a roaring fire the atmosphere was ideal for an evening of singer-songwriters.
First act was the captivating The Man Whom, playing an extended set due to the Jonny Black, of LaFaro fame, being detained by some car issues.
Taking to the stage joking that he’s used to having a lot more pedals at his feet, a reference to his And So I Watch You From Afar days, Tony Wright aka VerseChorusVerse armed with a harmonica and acoustic guitar calls the crowd to attention. Playing a selection of tracks from his new EP, “VCV”, including “One Fine Day” and “Into The Autumn”, it is the unreleased songs “Nothing is Easy” and “Spiders” that really stand out. Both are heartbreakingly beautiful, with Wright’s emotional voice projecting perfectly the sentiment in every line.
As the former guitarist in one of the world’s best instrumental rock bands, it shouldn’t make sense for Tony Wright to be a fantastic folk musician, yet somehow it works perfectly. Not only is his voice perfectly suited to acoustic material, his on stage charisma is ideal for a solo musician. He is engaging with his audience; not only while performing but also in between songs with anecdotes and general banter.
A seasoned performer, it should come as no surprise that Wright’s display tonight was nothing short of perfect. Although new to this style of performing, it is clear he has an abundance of talent for whatever he throws his hand to. An artist with a very promising future ahead who’s performances definitely should not be missed.