Live review: K’s Choice album launch @ American Bar and Grill 21/8/13

Live review: K’s Choice album launch
@ American Bar & Grill
Wednesday 21st August 2013

K’s Choice has established itself as one of Liverpool’s premier acoustic nights. The weekly event (soon to go monthly) is organised and hosted by Liverpool based musician Derek King. Despite stiff competition from regular Wednesday events like The Writers Club at Bier, The American Bar & Grill can hold its own and its prime location ensures that many a musician and member of the public will pass through. This particular gig was significant as it was the setting for the launch of K’s Choice – The City Of Music 2013, a various artists compilation album; showcasing some of the best artists on the Liverpool acoustic scene. The double CD features 26 artists who have played K’s Choice this year; including Terry Gray, P’Chenga and Jo Bywater.

Headlining the event was local up and coming artist Robert Vincent, who seems to be everywhere at the moment. In fact having the artist on board for K’s Choice has proven quite a coup. As you’d expect it was a busy evening and the atmosphere was friendly. Some of the artists on the album were present at the launch; including myself, SheBeat, Thom Morecroft and Shoe4Brakes. Derek kicked off proceedings with a short set of his own, before introducing the first guest, Chris Callander. Callander is an engaging performer and got things off to a flying start. His track Howl at the Moon closes the CD on a lively upbeat note. Shannen Bamford had to cancel her set due to illness, so representing the ladies instead was Caroline England, who did more than an admirable job of filling in. Her signature tune, Ginger is a popular number and is one of the highlights on the CD. Next up was Dogstar Rose, who was accompanied by Simon McKelvie on bongos. Her song Strange Enough can be found on disc one. Gary Gardner kept up the momentum with an arresting set and his song Someone‘s Watching Over Me is a strong addition to the CD. Finally headliner Robert Vincent took to the stage at about 10:15pm. His track The Bomb kicks off disc two of the program. Accompanied by Stephanie Kearley on cello, Vincent played an hour long set to a great reception. His blend of folk, country and acoustic rock was a winner and an encore was assured. In particular the on/off stage banter between Vincent and Thom Morecroft was legendary. Perhaps this is the start of a comedy double act? Robert Vincent is currently promoting his debut album Life In Easy Steps, which is available on iTunes and Amazon. robertvincentmusic.com

That brings us to the CD itself, which is a well chosen set compiled by Derek King and mixed by Chris Stewart. Special mention should go to Kayley Cope for the inspired sleeve design. The CD is available to buy from News From Nowhere on Bold Street priced £5 and is good value for money. The album is also available to purchase online facebook.com/kschoicecofm

© 2013 Stuart Todd – Liverpool Acoustic

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Live review: K’s Choice album launch @ American Bar and Grill 21/8/13