There
was an atmosphere of expectation as a near capacity audience gathered in York’s
National Centre for Early Music (a converted Grade I listed church) for the
first gig on Tim Garland’s Lighthouse tour. The band, formed 20 years ago in the north east and named
after Whitley Bay’s iconic St. Mary’s Lighthouse, are touring their latest
release, Moment of Departure. This album is based around a migratory theme and is
inspired by, and incorporates visual elements of, the work of artist Esra Kizir
Gokcen entitled Sail to Hope. There was subtle, but not intrusive, amplification of all
three musicians.
The first set (without visuals) comprised tracks from the album and also other Garland compositions. There was tight interplay between all musicians with short virtuoso solos from all three. Asaf Sirkis had a veritable menagerie of percussion to use (described to the audience by Garland as “items from your kitchen”). Garland played soprano and tenor sax and bass clarinet (in his words: “random note generator”) – well the notes may have been random, but they were all played with perfect control! Simcock thoroughly explored the capabilities of the venue’s Bösendorfer grand both via the keys and inside the lid.
After an interval – during which CDs and vinyl copies of Moment of Departure were available – the second set was accompanied by a projected video created from Gokcen’s artwork. This was very effective and added to the interest of the music. The artist was present in the room. The combination of visuals and music are a “work in progress” and will be developed over the course of the tour.
The majority of the music played was composed by Tim Garland, but each co-contributor exhibited one piece: Simcock’s High Jinks – inspired by the antics of his now three year old son – and Sirkis’ Waterfall.
After the final bow, and before the three made their exit (“couldn’t be bothered”) we were treated to an encore - a Lighthouse interpretation of Blue in Green.
Overall a memorable evening in a lovely venue. Hugh
Tour details HERE.
ALBUM REVIEW (May 1).
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