Jimmy Cliff...

venue:   Concorde 2 review date:   Monday, 5 July 2004 words by:   Annie Holland photos by:   Sam Milford [ intro | page 1 ]

review

After a few dirges from an unnamed support act (we weren't altogether taken), and a little impromptu dancing from his backing band, Jimmy Cliff bounded onstage like a much needed Orange Mivvi. It was HOT in there. The crowd of long-standing, loyal fans greeted their hero by dutifully going mental. He’s in fantastic voice and eager to play. "I haven’t played here for fifteen years! Hello Bristol!" Then, after a few nudges someone reminded him it was Monday. “Just checking you’re listening! Hello Brighton."

When I last saw him, fifteen years ago as it happens, at the Town & Country Club in London I left with the feeling that there was something missing. Tonight in Brighton, his voice was full, his backing fantastic and the show unstoppable.

Jimmy Cliff's repertoire of classics is impressive, and he played a good selection of them for us tonight. 'Beautiful people' was helped along by the ecstatic crowd but the big highlight for me was 'Many Rivers to Cross'. And of course 'The Harder They Come'. Oh and 'I Can See Clearly' and 'Wild Wild World'. In fact the whole set was brilliant, much as you’d expect from a hero.

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about Concorde 2

Okay, so you may have to walk a bit to reach it... but that just makes it that little bit more exclusive doesn't it! Located along Madeira Drive, the Concorde 2 is a sizeable venue with a huge variety of clubnights and bands on each month. Some top names, some great festivals, World Music... you name it. If you can't find something to pique your interest then you might as well pack your bags and head for Eastbourne... The next Concorde 2 date for your diary: Tuesday, 7th October Sebastein Tellier + Support Click for more info and complete listings for Concorde 2