Andy Shauf
In a living room overlooking Lee's Palace people crowded around for the just announced members-only gig. Andy Shauf took to the 'stage' (perched on an amp near the end of the room) and played a string of songs on his acoustic guitar. His subdued voice worked for the low key set, though at moments we did have to strain to hear him over some Bloor Street traffic filtering through the ajar patio door. Slightly awkwardly he asked the audience if they had any questions a few time, I suppose in an effort to get to know him in the intimate setting. The lyrics were intimate and amusing the tale of the smoking hometown hero was particularly enjoyable. Perhaps six songs later they made way for the Friendly Friends who were set to bring the energy up a little.
Aidan Knight and the Friendly Friends
And friendly they were! The band's namesake was also seated, surrounded by his female vocalist/horn section, violin/bass/guitarist, drummer and the unseen keyboardist at the bottom of the stairs. The opening couple numbers from last years excellent Small Reveal serve as a nice opening and so they proceeded. The music came across very nicely in the intimate setting and people crammed into the room to attentively listen. It is really well written music that comes to life with these six musicians, even if they were forced to be seated/still due to the room's constraints. Even the cover tune worked in well. The blaring brass really complements the guitar work and insistent drumming to bring it all to life. That being said, the final song with just Aidan and his guitar singing Margaret Downe brought it alive too, albeit in another way altogether.
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