All images Tony Woolway
Formed in 1981 and still going strong 41 years later The Blow Monkeys have enjoyed a successful and critically acclaimed career. Splitting up in the early nineties, a welcome return in the mid-2000’s with a clutch of well received recordings, there was no getting away from the very recognisable Blow Monkey sound and distinctive Dr Robert stylish vocals which proved there’s still plenty more to come from the band,
It was a good sized crowd that turned out at The Globe for the band’s return and they provided a quite stunning evening that induced a nostalgic yearning for many whilst any newbie’s in attendance couldn’t fail to be hooked by the sultry soul funk that’s become the band’s trademark sound over the years.
Quickly into there stride from the off, and with Dr Robert (Robert Howard) the obvious focal point, he charmed the crowd with good humour in between some classy Monkey’s tunes that both musically and lyrically have stood the test of time. A fierce critic of government wrongdoing through the decades there was certainly no let up and cooling of their opinions.
Great versions of the classic “Digging Your Scene” and "It Doesn't Have to Be This Way” were obviously fan favourites for the evening but equally, impressive was “Wait” and their cover of Lesley Gore’s “You Don’t Own Me” (Recorded specifically for the film Dirty Dancing). All showcased a tight and talented band with longtime bassist Mick Anker leading the way and supplying the funk.
Rounding up the evening with the brilliant Curtis Mayfield classic “Superfly” the band left a crowd to go out into a chilly November evening warmed by a band who can still produce and relevant despite the years.
Ian Prowse and Nico
No review would be complete without special mention for the evening’s support, former Pele front man Ian Prowse. With just his guitar and violinist Nico he was the perfect accompaniment for the headline band. His songs, strong and direct, especially “My Name Is Dessie Warren” and “Does This Train Stop in Merseyside” were very emotive and thought provoking. But his staring down of noisy punters who chatted away oblivious to the those listening (trying to listen) made him a hero and helped set the tone for the rest of the night.
Tony Woolway