INDIE INVERCLYDE - I AM DAVID LAING

July 07, 2024

INDIE INVERCLYDE - I AM DAVID LAING

Saturday 6th July 2024 saw the launch of the new Indie Inverclyde series in the stunning Beacon Arts Centre in Greenock. The centre sits overlooking the picturesque River Clyde, inside is a lovely waterfront cafe where you can sit, have a few drinks/coffee and enjoy the view.

The gig took place within the intimate Studio Theatre, a multipurpose space with retractable seating to accommodate a standing or theatre style.

The evening kicked off with a captivating acoustic set from Mick McLennan & Scott Lever of Knock On Effect. The duo performed a stripped back version of 'B.I.A.S (On The Run)', originally a full band version, and although stripped back you could still feel that rock edge, tempo and energy. Moving through their set mixing in covers with original tunes. The duo ended their set with their highly loved single 'Shadow', building the crowd up nicely for the headline of the night I Am David Laing. Mark & Scott certainly gave everyone a passionate performance, great energy and laughs.

A very short interval and then it was time for the headline I am David Laing. Bringing out a full band which consisted of Megan Quinn, Scott McCluckie, Ryan McCluckie & Stuart Duffy. David played through a repertoire of his songs, kicking things off with 'Best thing' & 'Five Smiles' the perfect opening songs for the show. The next song 'Maybe Maybe' had a focus of the piano being the lead instrumentation, complimenting David's voice beautifully. The next song David spoke about, a song that he wrote back in his days at university and he made it very clear that this song has a twang, especially when singing the R's. A very country-esque track with a slight hint of bluegrass and a very catchy chorus, drum beat and bassline. He then gave everyone a snippet of a few tracks from his upcoming album, the title track 'We, Then Me' for me really radiated that haunting side to his vocals, add to that the stunning harmony & the album closing track 'Had it All' if these songs are anything to go by then this album will certainly be worth a listen. 'Somethings Gone' again showcases those incredible harmonies from Megan who's voice falls perfectly with Davids. 'Hoover Boxes' a song that he mentioned was not written about love, lust or loss. This song dives into when you were younger, imagination, superhero's and saving the world.

Some of the band then leave the stage for the acoustic portion of the set, both him and Megan really showcasing the incredible vocals and harmonies,'Love Goes On' & 'Princess of the Land' was a stunning example of this. David moved to the piano for 'Be There', not only is he talented on the guitar, he showed his piano skills for this song which was extremely raw and heartfelt, just him and the piano. The band returned to the stage for the final 2 songs of the evening, 'Marmalade' bringing back those country sounds & 'We Lie' a fantastic final song to close out the gig with everyone swaying along and singing, enjoying a fabulous night of live music.