3rd Nov, 2008

Dr John & The Lower 911

The legendary New Orleans Funk soul meastro performed at King Keorges Hall on Wed 29 October.  It was the first time the doctor had visited Blackburn and all that witnessed it seemed to appreciate that they were seeing a very special show.  Were you there?  What did you think?  Let us know.

Responses

First rate evening, but then we see the good doctor every time he tours the UK.

Great to see a big name in the North West for once!
If I have a critiscism I must wonder about the logistics of ticket pricing: I felt tickets were quite expensive for a minor venue, especialy when the £3.00 booking fee is taken into account. Considering the circle was closed off, and there were loads of empty seats in the stall, perhaps a cheaper ticket policy would be provident; Surely better to fill the hall - gives a better atmosphere and is more rewarding for the performers; and, of course, attendant increased revenue against bar takings etc.? I may b e alone on this, any other thoughts?
The sound wasn’t brilliant; From my seats the Doctors piano was pretty much drowned by the electric band. Sounded better at stage front so I may just have been unlucky?
Overal, though, a worthwhile night and a rare opportunity to see a living legend in a reasonably sized local venue.

I must admit, I was a reluctant attendee to the Dr John gig, having purchased a ticket for my dad as a very early xmas present and I couldn’t let him go on his own could I!
His music is very different to anything else around and I must admit I was impressed. The songs were unknown to me but all the way through the gig I was tapping away and singing along to the best I could. (I ain’t no singer!)
So for an artist to make an impression on me who I have never really heard to write about it is a true testament to how good he was. Anyhow I thought he was truly exceptional and went down very well with the crowd, many dancing at the front of he stage before the end.

The Doctor was in fine voice and grumpy spirit, and completely mesmerising with the lower 911 performing simply brilliantly, the support from the lead guitarist was fantastic. Hats off all round, I am only glad I was at the right place at the right time, (I can hear yor groans!).