The thing I love about covering gigs on behalf of GetToTheFront is that you not only get to see a vast range of artists, but at different locations, ranging from tonight at the Temperance Bar to The Etihad Stadium, and Glastonbury! But this place is brilliant, and these venues are essential for the survival of the music business and in breaking bands and artists, giving us the chance to see talent trying to get a start. Unlike Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse, who have had a certain amount of success already, so to see them on this quick promo visit to our shores was fantastic.

Formed by guitarist Robin Davey and vocalist Greta Valenti, and although I first heard of BGG&TA as a blues band, they are not really. They are a BAND who play yes, some blues, but there is soul, country, Americana and to be honest every type of music going on, and it’s very very good. Now on their second full release ‘Good Times End Times’, after their debut ‘Love And Murder’ was voted number 13 on the classic rock album of the year, a couple of years ago! Having headlined a few festivals in Europe, to see them in a basement of an historic building/pub tonight was privilege. Very informal with no setlist, as witnessed when Davey didn’t know what key to play a George Michael song in, having the key shouted out by bass man, Stephen Mildwater. This was amongst a few other covers like a beautiful acoustic version of Dire Straits’ ‘Romeo And Juliet’, he did while playing a solo he went quieter and quieter, so much so he actually unplugged his guitar and played to the microphone, only dogs could have heard it in the end, brilliant! But it was their own songs that were the attraction, with some unbelievable vocals by Valenti, who on a couple of occasions left the small stage climbing over the benches laid out in front to mingle with the audience, even having selfies taken whilst singing, they were loving this, as was I.

It was one of those nights as a gig goer you hope for, unpretentious and cosy, and although I am sure that the only way is up for this very talented band, and we wish them all the success they deserve. The only problem is that as they grow these nights may become less frequent, it would be a pity. But apparently, they are returning to the UK next summer, so my advice for anyone is get the album and get a ticket, I will be there, you can count on it.

Photos by Geoff Griffe
Review by Geoff & Jenny Griffe