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The Christians
made a triumphant return to Liverpool on Saturday evening, in what
was their first live gig at a large city venue in over 10 years.
Having
just released a brand new album 'Prodigal Sons', the band were on
fine form at the sold out Philharmonic Hall.
Listen
to Gary Christian discuss the new album.
Support
on the evening came from local singer/songwriter Peter Coyle who
delighted the audience with songs from both his solo and Lotus Eaters
years. The highlight of the set was a new track called 'Reach for
the Sun' which has just been released in America. Peter has a fantastic
voice that has matured over the years and the evening was a great
opportunity to play in front of an appreciative hometown audience.
The
Christians current tour is more of a stripped down affair with no
drums or bass - giving more of an 'unplugged' feel. The line-up
included the familiar vocals of Gary, Russell on keyboards, Henry
Priestman on guitar and accordion and Paul Campbell also on guitar.
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| Gary
Christian. |
Opening
the set with 'Save a Soul in Every Town' they relied mostly on their
vast back catalogue, mixing in only the odd new track; 'Close to
Midnight' and title track 'Prodigal Sons'. The lads seemed to be
enjoying themselves as were the audience - even if they did need
some warming up in the beginning. The mixture of smooth vocal harmonies
and familiar tunes like 'Born Again' and 'Ideal World' soon had
the crowd singing along in all the right places.
The
choice of The Philharmonic as a venue was inspired as, not only
had Gary wanted to play there since a child but, the quality of
the acoustics lent themselves effortlessly to The Christians' style.
Listen
to Gary Christian speak about The Philharmonic Hall.
Finishing
the encore with shouts for 'Hooverville', the band duly obliged
and left the stage, the audience well and truly conquered.
Speaking
to Gary before the gig, he said he was enjoying his music and performing
live again without the pressure and involvement of major record
companies.
Gary
Christian on a music career without pressure.
Going
on this performance, I'm sure we'll see a lot more of The Christians
in the not too distant future. 'Prodigal Sons' is out now and available
on Verdala Records.
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