Courtesy of the  Early Doors Club project St George’s Church, Tyldesley is full to hear an hours worth of uplifting solo acoustic music from Bluetones’ vocalist Mark Morriss.

A SACRED VENUE

After a 7 hour journey on our clogged up motorways, Mark Morriss arrives only an hour before he begins. Immediately, the Bluetones man strikes up a chummy rapport with the audience. He takes full advantage of the splendid acoustics of this sacred venue.

They are indeed exceptional. His clear vocals and resonant acoustic guitar work fills every space. He remarks that his Yamaha guitar was the first instrument he has received free of charge in his long musical career. Using it wonderfully, delivers Bluetones favourites, solo cuts and even new Bluetones material. Many in the audience are familiar with Morriss’ material. Wittily, he complements them for applauding for just the right length of time!

PLENTY OF FAVOURITES

Into The Red, a catchy song inspired by the financial crisis, highlights a range of themes for his solo and Bluetones songs. As does the passionate Consuela. 

The range of media on the merch table was wide too, even including he jokes, cassette versions for those who still have crappy car stereos! He also challenges people not to make eye contact at the merch desk as this constitutes a certain sale. 

Favourites Heat Is Rising, a version of Scott Walker’s Duchess, Where Did You Go?, his first solo single I’m Sick, and Bluetones hit Never Going Nowhere, reveal the versatility Morriss possesses. 

In keeping with the venue, Morriss attempts brief versions of Onward Christian Soldiers and Psalm 23 but as he couldn’t remember the words, the St George’s choir have nothing to worry about. 

NICE EVENING THIS, INNIT?

Amusing quips about finding it hard to find a level surface for his lubricating sup between songs, and anecdotes about his time with The Bluetones help grow the affinity with the audience. It is summed up perfectly by Morriss when he asks, “Nice evening this, innit?” Indeed it is, Mark.

Other Early Doors Club concerts have definitely been nice. This organisation ought to be praised for the high quality of events they organise including Chris Helme and Bec Jones (to name a couple). These small events take place in the unlikeliest of local venues and are well supported. Attendance is by online booking and you need to be quick as they fill up rapidly. See their Facebook page HERE for details of upcoming events. You can also see a quick overview below.

Check out Mark Morriss performing The Bluetones classic, Slight Return.

Mark Morriss is appearing with The Bluetones on their UK tour. The band will play up and down the country. You can find all the dates here.

Mark Morriss: Website / Facebook / X (formerly Twitter)

The Bluetones: Website

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