A Gig In A Cathedral

I am not the biggest follower of live music, I follow all sorts of genres, love discovering new artists and boring my peers at how good this latest band is. Often a worrying fact that my Dad suggests this music to me rather than me uncovering little gems.

In the past I have seen live gigs such as.... McFly (when they turned on Cheltenham Xmas Lights), and at Radio 1s Big Weekend I saw bands like Snow Patrol, The Script and The Saturdays #mainstreamLAD. Oh and I saw Take That's latest Progress tour at Villa Park in July which was A-mazing. But recently I have been delving into a bit of soft folky stuff like Bon Iver, Ben Howard and James Blake. For easy listening and music that can really give you a pick-me-up this stuff is fantastic.

On Tuesday evening I got the opportunity to go to a Laura Marling gig held at Gloucester Cathedral with a friend from work. I've only really heard some of her early stuff and the main single Sophia from her new album 'A Creature I Don't Know'. But her set was awe-inspiring. I spent most of the 2 hour set on the edge of my seat and listening to her unique yet soft voice. Her lyrics meant something and her songs had a good range of beats and tempos. Laura, herself is not the typical showstopper, she appears really innocent and gentle on the stage and never really knew what to say to the crowd of 500 or so seated in the cloisters of the Cathedral. But as soon as she starting playing it was really quite beautiful.

The acoustics in the cathedral were ace and the subtle lighting really worked for quite an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. One thing however that caught my attention was the great range and diversity of her 'fans'. From the elderly church regulars to the several teenage girls younger than my 15 year old sister with 'LAURA' spelt on their t-shirts there really was a real mix of people in the Cathedral which highlighted Marling's universal appeal.

She was supported by Leisure Society who looked really nervous but played some great songs and a great cover of Erasure's Respect. Surprise, Surprise after sending a text home - my Dad has had the Leisure Society album for at least 6 months. Freak.


Here's some songs that maybe you can try and discover a similar passion for soft folk music!
Bon Iver - Calgary, Perth or Towers
Laura Marling - Sophia
Ben Howard - Wolves, Keep Your Head Up
James Blake - Wilhelms Scream
Hey Sholay - Wishbone

Until next time
Tom