Review: Deirdre Harrison
Photos: Kieran Frost
As the rain fell with an apocalyptic force, music fans ran for shelter into Dublin’s Unitarian Church. On arrival many were met by headliner, John Vanderslice, apologising for the weather. If this rain really did signify the end of the world, there probably wasn’t a better place to be than at a gig in a church.
In the atmospheric setting, opening act, VerseChorusVerse, takes to the stage, I mean altar, opening with the beautiful “Into The Autumn”. VerseChorusVerse, or Tony Wright as he is also called, is probably best known as the hyper, flame haired guitarist formally of And So I Watch You From Afar. After just a few lines it is clear that Wright has a voice that was frankly wasted in an instrumental band. With fairy lights and candles creating the perfect silent scene, we are treated to a song which was never before performed live, “Nothing Is Easy”. It is here that Wright’s talent as a guitarist really shines as he skilfully picks each string.
Welcoming the assembled fans, John Vanderslice comments on the stunning location; a welcome change from a rock bar. Accompanied by just his guitar, Vanderslice opens with “I’ll Never Live Up To You”, his angelic voice perfect given the setting. When joined fellow musician, Jason Slota, those present were treated to an incredible display. Slota is a multi-instrumentalist and when I say multi-instrumentalist I really mean multi-instrumentalist. Playing drums and a variety of other instruments at the same time he manages to make it look easy and sound incredible. At times it is hard to believe these sounds are coming from just two men.
Vanderslice is ever the engaging performer, regaling the audience with tales varying from his cats, to laundry, to a hotel in Amsterdam designed for musicians. His welcoming attitude is a breathe of fresh air. Switching to an electric guitar during the familiar “Kookaburra”, the natural acoustics of the venue really allowed to shine.
He has already given us a magnificent performance, but they have left the most magical part of the evening till last. Completing this part of evening, Vanderslice and Slota venture down the aisle (in the non-marital sense of course) armed with just an acoustic guitar and floor tom to perform two final songs.
Leaving the Unitarian Church, it was time to go to Whelan’s where an after party was planned for all those present. After party may be a bit misleading, second gig may be more appropriate. Taking to the stage once more Vanderslice gifted us a second captivating performance before VerseChorusVerse took to the intimate surroundings of Whelan’s upstairs venue.
Having gone to this gig with very little prior knowledge of John Vanderslice, I left a converted fan. Everything about this was perfect; the breath-taking venue, the wonderful support, the crowd interaction and the performance. Without doubt a contender for gig of the year.