Dick Heckstall Smith: A Story Ended
at The Astoria, London on Monday 6th June 2005
List of Artists in order of apperance
- Big Chief
-
Eddie Martin Band
-
Pete Brown Band
-
John O'Leary Band
-
Mick Taylor Band
-
James Litherland & Barbara Thompson
-
Jack Bruce -Gary Moore-Gary Husband
- Colosseum
On one of the great
musical nights of the year, it is with a little sadness that I paused
to consider that a superb musical bill of fare such as this could only
come about because of the passing of one of Britain’s most colourful and
innovative musicians, Dick Heckstall Smith.
On a brighter note, even the normally
reticent Dick would surely have loved the fantastic vibe, and the spirit
of co-operation both and off stage for what proved to be a magnificent
night’s music.
All artists involved had some direct musical input into Dick’s life. And while Jack Bruce, Mick Taylor, Gary Moore and Colosseum were the obvious headliners, there was an equally inspiring undercard worthy of Dick’s lasting musical legacy
The
John O‘Leary Band further added to the evening’s many displays of
virtuoso playing with a dazzling display of Chicago Blues. And while
Paul Butterfield’s "Born In Chicago" may not have been the most
interesting choice of song of the night, John’s lovely harp work, and
sweet timbred vocals fitted perfectly in between Jules Fothergill’s
considered slide and Winston De Landro’s impeccable guitar lines. Roger
Innis on bass and Joachim Greve on drums provided the perfect rhythm
section as the band tore into "Snatch It Back".
Jules and John remained on the
stand to augment Mick Taylor’s band. After a languid opening Mick
quickly found his inimitable guitar tone, and swapped some delicate
lines with the impressive Fothergill before delivering one of the
evening many highlights with a show stopping rendition of the Stones’s
"No Expectations". On this number alone – which comes from 1968’s
"Beggars Banquet" album – Taylor showed just why he is still considered
to be one of the guitar greats.....................
..............the
audience left the venue as drained as most of the musicians. A great
night for Dick Heckstall Smith who will be sorely missed.
Pete Feenstra, Get Ready To Rock