Published by METRO
Tonight (25 January), 9pm, £20, Old Fruitmarket, Glasgow. Tel: 0141 353 8000. www.glasgowconcerthalls.com/oldfruitmarket
Burns Night was a messy one for me last year. No, it turned out that spending the wee hours reciting poetry in slurred Scots after one too many whiskeys wasn’t the finest way to celebrate The Bard’s birthday, despite my prior reckoning. But please, I have a better idea this time around. Honestly.
Tonight, the Old Fruitmarket hosts a highlight of Glasgow’s Celtic Connections festival – less than one week into its 18-day run.
Legendary musician Jack Bruce – once of the 1960s rock band Cream – returns to his city of birth for an intriguing show at this enchanting venue.
And the singer-songwriter will deliver a performance worthy of all his indulgences in the jazz, rock and classical formats from half a century on the circuit.
As well as being considered one of the greatest bass players of all time, Bruce is also an accomplished vocalist, cellist, guitarist, pianist, double bassist and harmonicist – but it’s not all about him, you know.
No no, because Edinburgh trio LAU – comprised of Kris Drever, Aidan O’Rourke and Martin Green – will be joining him on stage. With their powerful melodies and varied rhythms, they’re described as their generation’s most inventive folk group.
Percussionist Jim Sutherland, keyboardist Andy May, guitarist Taj Wyzgowski, drummer Chris Peacock, bassist Nico Bruce and Mr McFall’s Chamber complete a super-group that keeps with the collaborative spirit of this annual roots festival.
Support is pleasantly provided by adventurous Catalan string quartet Domini Magic.
OK, after last year’s shenanigans, I know I’ve no right to be offering Burns Night advice to anyone. But while you can drink whiskey and mumble Burns poetry anytime, this very special show is a one-off. Do the right thing.
