It’s been 15 months since Dave Graney and Clare Moore performed in Newcastle.
The intimate setting of The Stag and Hunter made for the perfect return and the launch of their new album, Everything Is Funny.
From the opening number, the crowd at The Stag were held spellbound by the music performed by Dave & Clare – It’s nice to be at a show where the only sounds in the room are from the duo on stage.
Two instrumental pieces from the new record, Diaghelev & Nijinski and the exquisite Beckett & Tubbs opened the night with the latter highliting Dave’s haunting slide guitar. And you certainly know you are in for a treat when You’re Just Too Hip, Baby and Night of the Wolverine are included so early in the first set.
The South Australian-born storyteller is shown so much respect from the audience and it’s such a welcome change when you can actually hear every word instead of listening over chatter.
At least nine songs from the new record were given an outing and the balance of the two sets were drawn from their expansive back catalogue.
Dave’s guitar work and vocals were enriched with Clare’s wonderful talents on keyboard, vibraphone, percussion and backing vocals. A consummate and engaging raconteur, Dave’s witty and hilarious tales are worth the admission price alone.
Let’s hope it is not as long to wait for a return visit.
