Bringing a more mellow mood to Rock City than in his The Gaslight Anthem days, Brian Fallon still knows how to win over a crowd...
Best known as the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and main lyricist of rock band The Gaslight Anthem, Brian Fallon brought his solo European Tour to an end at Rock City on Saturday night with his live band Howling Weather, and it was a belter. Having just released his third album, Local Honey, this was a perfect evening to show fans how he has progressed as an artist, and he was supported by solo singer-songwriter Chris Farren in this mission.
The show kicked off with a great solo effort by Farren. Armed only with backing tracks, a guitar, vocals and wit, he delivered a faultless set - even if he did say so himself - and the fans loved his energy. His indie pop sounds and drum machine fitted in perfectly with his live vocals and guitaring, and he deserves to be a name we will see more of in Nottingham.
Away from the alternate rock/punk-rock vibe of Brian Fallon when he played in Gaslight Anthem, his solo work is much more stripped back and strongly influenced by a country and western flavour. With just drums, bass, guitars, keys and vocals, he manages to put over a much more intimate feel to his music and, as he now enters his forties, the songs are more influenced by his wife, home and children.
Thank you to Chris Farren, the Howling Weather and Brian Fallon for a great show
There is still the trademark Fallon rasp, but it has a new warmth and tenderness that the crowd appreciated. Couples held each other and swayed to the sounds as they sang along, simple but effective bass lines made sure the fans could keep to the beat, understated drumming anchored everything together perfectly, guitars and keys soared above and beyond, and yet all the time Fallon's introspective lyrics dominated.
The close connection between Brian, Howling Weather and the audience was obvious to all, and this would have made a brilliant close-up pub set with no stage or barriers - but his fame does not allow for such shows, unfortunately.
As with all gigs, the end eventually arrived and Brian sincerely thanked everyone for taking the time to see him and all the other musicians. The overall emotion of the night was love; love for the music, the band, and Brian's ability to put across his personal feelings and insecurities. Thank you to Chris Farren, the Howling Weather and Brian Fallon for a great show.
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