THE STUMBLE @ KEIGHLEY BLUES CLUB JULY 2007
The Blues Club has seen a number of repeat appearances over the last few months, each one well worth a second spot, but the return of The Stumble in July proved an absolute treat. From the opening riffs of "Hideaway" to the amazing contrast of a two number encore (more of this later) the night was proof, if any was needed, that these guys know just what it takes to create a good night for an audience. Superb lead and slide guitar, soulful then scorching sax and a solid rhythm framework all complemented rather than competed with the wide ranging vocal talents of Paul Melville aka 'The Kearsley Krusha'. This was no Wimbledon yet it provided the best three sets of the summer! Three sets? Yes, the guys surprised us all by squeezing a semi-acoustic set between their powered offerings that allowed all of them to showcase even more talent and sensitivity. Their final blast of "Give Me Back My Wig" was greeted with an impromptu standing ovation and a genuine call for "More" and they did not disappoint. Paul first reappeared on his own and treated us to room-hushing version of "Sign Your Name" accompanied by nothing more than a coin tapping on a beer glass - magic! Then the whole band came out to give us "The World Is Tough" to bring a memorable night to a storming close. The Stumble may not be the most high profile band to play the club but many, including myself, believe they are one of the very best and if you missed them.... let's just hope there will be a third time to be lucky. Ron Beaumont.
LINTON FESTIVAL JUNE 2007
The Stumble, track four from John Mayall?s album 'A Hard Road' you might think - think again; this classic Chicago?style band from Preston opened the festival in stunning style. We were treated to almost all of the tracks from their album 'The World Is Tough' most of which the band wrote themselves. Judging by the writhing mass in front of stage a Hound Dog Taylor cover of Gimme Back My Wig went down a treat. Magic Slim has covered this as well but this version was fantastic! Alan White www.earlyblues.com
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