Something For Kate - The Forum

Squashed in like sardines at The Corner earlier in the year, Paul announced that the band was taking a break, stressing that they weren't breaking up and Dempsey was to begin work on a solo album. A few months later, a retrospective album has been released -The Murmur Years- and another round of shows. I'm happy they played at the The Forum, as there tends to be more room to move, the atmosphere's electric and you'll usually have the ability to avoid staring at the back of someone's noggin'.

Not having done Brain Training like they advertise on tv, I can't remember all the songs from the set, although pushing 2 hours, even the sharpest mind would have trouble memorizing them all. I've seen SFK 4 times so far, plus a JB instore, and must admit have enjoyed each show thoroughly. With such a large back catalog to choose from, no shows are the same, and I've noticed a couple of covers are usually thrown in.

There were a few songs I couldn't recoginse, however, it appeared I was in the minority as many of the devoted fans in the vicinity happily squealed in delight as the first few chords were played. From their latest studio album, personal favourites "Oh Kamikaze" and "California" got a run, while there did seem to be a larger selection from earlier work including "The Astronaut", "Jerry Stand Up" and "Three Dimensions" (I think!).

My favourite live song which never fails to invoke tingles down the spine is "Deja Vu", enhanced immensely with violin. Hearing a live version sans violin on a bonus disc from "Desert Lights", it's amazing just how much it adds as opposed to just guitars. One of the new songs from the retrospective: "The Futurist", hasn't grabbed me as yet, but I've found with their albums it's taken a number of listens to really get a feel for it.

The 2 covers from the night were "When the War is Over" by Cold Chisel and "Waltz #2 (XO)" from Elliott Smith. The Chisel cover was well done, and on the night, I just couldn't place the original artist which I put to that fact that"Mossy" and "Barnsey" weren't screaming the lyrics... With my poor music knowledge, I hadn't heard "Waltz #2" until that night, and it was enthusiastically appreciated by the audience. Having since purchased XO, it was an excellent version by Paul and Pip with just a guitar and violin. (There's that instrument again...)

In a pleasant surprise, they actually recorded the show, so I look forward to this impending release. I particularly wish to hear "Waltz # 2" again now that I'm more familiar with the original work. Unfortunately it looks like a longer break is on the cards and it will be interesting to see what Paul creates as a solo artist.