U2-2 & Cole Stacey
26th February 2011
Band Members:
Frank as Bono
Luke as the Edge
Steve as Adam
Andy as Larry
Support:
Cole Stacey
Gig Photos Photos
U2-2 Official Website
Cole Stacey Official Website
Venue The EntShed, Bedford
Well this was a bit off my normal path for two reasons. First it was a new venue for me and second it was a tribute band.
The venue: The Ent Shed, Bedford wasn't hard to find sitting next to the Gorden Arms. Parking was on road in a primarily residential area but it wasn't hard to find a space. It is a relatively small venue holding approximately 100 people with room for a small bar at the back. I guess it must have been a large shed or out building at one time and has a high ceiling reminiscent of many village halls with a small stage area and backdrop at the end away from the entrance.
The evenings entertainment was kicked off by Cole Stacey (with his dad on drums) up from Devon. A singer song writer he is honing his skills supporting such notables as Cara Dillon and Martin Simpson from the folk world. He struck me as a little nervous on stage but I really enjoyed his music. The sound quality was good too, especially given how off center I was, not to mention close to a speaker... The volume was just about right.. loud enough without causing blood to drip from my ears!!! All credit to the sound engineer.
I am always a little hesitant when it comes to tribute bands... its not only do they sound like who they are apeing (please don't slaughter my favorite songs) but do they bear some physical or behavioural resemblance. U2-2 did a very good job IMHO they were spookily like U2 but at the same time didn't take themselves too seriously (a trait I like in tribute bands). I didn't know all the songs they played but what I did I thoroughly enjoyed. Infact they have been praised by and clearly have a rapport with U2 themselves - a signed U2 CD was auctioned during the evening.
By all acounts this gig was a departure for the band too, as this was heralded as their first attempt at doing an acoustic set. Normally they tour the world and are one of the top, if not the top U2 tribute act.
So all-in-all a great evening out, a good inimate venue and most importantly great music. Watch out for more reviews from artists at this venue.
10/10