Monday evening’s icy conditions, sub-zero temperatures and Black Cats home game didn’t stop North-East music fans from descending upon the Fire Station in Sunderland for a rare appearance from British rock troubadour Richard Hawley.
The artist recently released a new live album recorded at Piece Hall in Halifax, but those lucky enough to bag a ticket to the sold-out concert got the opportunity to witness Hawley and his band up close and in person.
By his admission, the 55-year-old singer, songwriter and guitarist hadn’t previously performed in Sunderland. But despite this, the Fire Station audience certainly gave the Sheffield native a warm welcome during what was a bitterly cold evening in the city.
Throughout the proceedings, Richard Hawley showcased the many musical stylings featured in his repertoire.
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Backed by his five-piece band, Hawley kicked off the proceedings with Off My Mind, Alone and Further. Subsequently, a brooding country-tinged airing of Standing at the Sky’s Edge and the classic Tonight the Streets Are Ours were highlights during the first half of the set.
Hawley crooned his way through Coles Corner. One of several tracks on the setlist that illustrated the cinematic quality of the artist’s material.
With the crowd on their feet, patrons were invited to dance along during a wonderful rendition of I’m Looking for Someone to Find Me.
Grasping his hollow-bodied guitar, Hawley switched up the pace with the rockabilly number Galley Girl.
In the latter stages of the set, the Stones-like swagger of Time Is, along with the thunderous rocker Down in the Woods stood out.
Hawley's incendiary guitar solo during the latter was of note. The much-revered performer declared that the band had not rehearsed or played together since September.
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However, despite this, they were in great form throughout the evening.
The artist's sixteen-song setlist concluded during an encore performance of Heart of Oak, and left the Sunderland audience feeling as though they had witnessed one of those 'I was there' concerts.
It may have taken Richard Hawley his whole career to perform on Wearside, but on the strength of his recent Sunderland date, perhaps those in attendance would agree it was worth the wait.
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