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Last Tuesday was the first time I had been to the Brudenell Social Club in Leeds. After the night, however, I can safely say I will be returning to Brudenell as often as possible as it is a magnificent location for live music.
Adem Ilhan, bass guitarist of the post-rock band Fridge, has been described as being part of 'nu-folk'. After his first two albums, Homesongs and Love and Other Planets, his third album Takes is a collection of cover songs of artists including Yo La Tengo, The Smashing Pumpkins, Björk, dEUS, and many others.
Tuesday night saw a beautiful mix of these covers and his compositions leaving the audience stunned. He had on stage with him a troupe of extremely talented musicians who effortlessly moved between different instruments. Nancy Elizabeth was one of these artists, who also happened to be the support act. Her striking voice and graceful finger-picking set the scene well. The audience were appropriately relaxed and comfortable.
When Adem came to the stage, the power of the first song came as quite a shock. All seven artists suddenly accelerated into the gig and the music was simply spectacular. Strong but elegant drumbeats, beautiful violin, harp and double bass formed the core of this symphony, and Adem at the head. This resulted in a soothing but utterly stirring set. At the end of one song, a cry came from behind me said: “You’re a lovely man”. I think the whole room agreed and were touched by Adem’s response: “Right back at you”.
The audience were appropriately relaxed and comfortable.
A personal favourite, These are my Friends, is a perfect example of his soft, poignant voice merging with the rich melodies at the start but slowly transforming into an anthem the audience could join in with. The set was full such meaningful songs that entertained. At one point he asked what the time was, when the reply "Twenty to 11” came he said: “Almost done then”. This led to a chorus from the audience of “It’s 8.30”, “It’s Tuesday morning”. Everyone could have stayed there all night.
Amen to Adem at the Brudenell.
Didn't catch this gig, sounds great though, but can wholeheartedly agree that the Brudenell is one of the best venues around and get's such a great line-up of gigs. It's intimate, provides areas for dancing and chilling out (with chairs for the lazy!) and most importantly will serve you a very cheap pint. Infinitely better than dishing out £3.25 for a warm Carling then staring at the back of someone's sweaty neck for 2 hours like seems to be the case at most (Carling) Academies.
Rant over, check out the Brudenell!
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