David Gray

As a 56 year old male with over 40 years of going to gigs (that’s what we called them when younger, no idea if it’s the same in the 21st Century), I have to admit to not knowing what to expect from my first David Gray concert.
Which is just as well.
My lack of expectations did not prepare me for the energy, talent, sound and overall wonderful experience I had at The Cliffs Pavillion last night (20/03/2019).
I’ve followed Mr G’s music since the mid 1990’s and have been haunted by the breathtaking music and lyrics. Receiving my signed copy of his new album (‘Goldbin a Brass Age’) just three days before I saw him, I feasted on it like a starving man.
It paid off as I was blown away by the first set of songs from this new album. I’d treated myself to a front row seat and I was captivated by the mans energy and obvious enjoyment at playing these new songs. He spoke about it being akin to learning to breathe again- and I can understand why.
Don’t get me wrong; his classic tracks are just that. Classic and enduring. The second set were many of the ‘old favourites’ and they were great. They caught the audience and carried them with him and the band.
But this new stuff? My Oh My (sorry), it was about an hour of sheer bliss. Well sung, well played and the sound was brilliant from where I was.

I’m used to Genesis, Yes, Camel, Steve Hackett and the like with Newton Faulkner, Ezio, Hue and Cry and Dan Wilde thrown in for balance. A recent Death Cab for Cutie gig was simply awesome; but this musician engaged me in his new music, enthralled me with his skill and voice and made me smile with his connection to his (very happy) audience.

If you can, go and see him. Tell him Alan said Hello and thanks...

3rd time I've seen David Gray and against expectations, the best. It was a bold move to front load the set list with new songs with the new album not yet released but it made for a powerful listening experience as the artist performed his new compositions to an audience hearing them for the first time - and they are strong tracks. Then when the older material was woven into the set it was with plenty of creativity and a willingness to take his classic tracks to new places. My Oh My, Please Forgive Me and The Other Side were delivered with power and an inventive energy. The encore opened with an acoustic Babylon with everyone singing along in accompaniment and then a tender This Year's Love on piano, cello and bass - beautiful. The closer, Nemesis, wouldn't have been my choice, but by this stage everyone was won over, enthralled at such great songs performed so creatively. Great gig, great performer. I'll be back for more.

Probably one of the most underrated musicians in the UK right now. David had an acoustic set and thank god he did because it meant we were able to hear that melodic voice of his. If he had been accompanied by a full band I doubt we would have appreciated this guy's talent. A lot of ballads and not a lot of uptempo songs but nevertheless a great privilege to have seen David Gray live. Fully enjoyed the night. I would however suggest that Usher Hall do something about those seats that keep on banging when people get to go to the toilet - very distracting

Great performance. The opener - John Smith - had a strong 30-minute set. David Gray came on soon after, and played for around 2 1/2 hours, and covered all his hit songs from the last 20 years. What I found most surprising was how much energy he had. He brought to life songs that I wouldn't consider 'rocking'. He dances & jest urea in his own awkward, British way (a la Chris Martin), but was clearly into what he was doing. Add his witty, British repartee with the crowd, & you have the makings of a great show.

Enjoyed seeing David for the first time. The music from his new album is quality stuff and I’m going to buy it.

There was one small point though that my wife and I noted and from what others were shouting out, was that we would really appreciate it if David would talk to his audience more. We person shouted out “Say hello David!” at the start of the concert and in between songs there were pauses that needed filling with what he’s been doing, his life, personal stuff, small talk etc.

There is a distinct difference between attending a show and attending a performance. David Gray is a true performer. He brought electric to the stage with a full band and heavy light show. His passion exudes from him as he brings the crowd on the journey. I didn't know many songs from him before the show (I bought the tickets for my girlfriend) but after the show he has earned another true fan who will return to see him on the next tour!

What can I say... we thought we had seen the best of DG last time he was at the Sage, but we were absolutely blown away by his performance last night... the way he immerses himself in his music is just mesmerising and at times the whole venue was absolutely silent, waiting for the next bar...what a voice, what a talent... just brilliant!

The quality and clarity of David's voice made this an outstanding experience. Interspread with personal background information about many of the songs performed made this a unique event. Even with a slight technical glitch halfway through the first set David put on a show which is one of my favourites to date. Great stuff.

Fantastic music. David did a first half featuring his new music. Really interesting arrangements.
Lots of older work. Shine was outstanding.
Everyone sang along with Babylon and Sail Away.
He's great to watch. His voice was stronger than ever. And he had a sense of humor about the Raptors.
Excellent.

My husband and I found this concert to be dissappointing, but we can't quite figure out why. David Gray and Amos Lee are two of our favorite artists, but this show just seemed to have no energy. Amos Lee appeared to be trying too hard to woo the ladies, and David Gray's set list was oddly arranged.