After 34 years it’s the return of the original Stackridge, one of Britain’s favourite live bands of the early 70s. The camaraderie might be a little tentative on their first major show, but the quirky pop songs, expansive arrangements and wonderful harmonies still sparkle. James Warren is the politely unassuming frontman, Andy Davis the serious musician, Mutter Slater the bowler-hatted comedian and Crun Walter the dogged bassist.
The show covers the band’s chequered life and line-ups, from the iconic Slark to the parting shot, Fish In A Glass, and on to the glorious later number Something About The Beatles. A couple of hits from the Davis/ Warren days as The Korgis are well-received, if misplaced.
Half a dozen extra musos (not least a female violin duo replacing the absent Mike Evans) help recreate the full sound of the records, from the boisterous faux dance craze Do The Stanley, to the achingly-beautiful Teatime. It’s a joyous reunion and a celebration of innocent music which never fully received its due at the time.
