Wishbone Ash, Mostly Autumn, Panic Room

Saturday night at the Empire was a showcase for the multifaceted genre that is progressive rock.

First up were the sophisticated sounds of Panic Room. A very short set saw them perform songs mainly from the new album Satellite. It’s a slick competent show; you’re not going to hear bums notes here! The centre of attention is of course the striking Anne Marie Helder, who is an excellent, versatile singer and is clearly relaxed in front of an audience. However, this puts a bit of pressure on her to carry the gig, and while the rest of the band can’t be blamed for having radio friendly faces, they are almost static and that can render the band a bit dull at times.

No such problems for the earthier Mostly Autumn with bass player Andy Smith a whirlwind of hair and elbows, and Bryan Josh going 'Gilmour’ on a few occasions. There’s a certain amount of osmosis between Panic Room and Mostly Autumn with them sharing drummers and Anne Marie Helder playing the flute on Dark Before the Dawn. However, this was really a night for Olivia Sparnenn, having recently taken on lead vocal duties from Heather Findlay. It’s a tough act but on tonight’s evidence there won’t be any problems, and the combination of her stunning voice and pleasant stage manner easily carry the songs. Stand outs from the set were, the multi layered Dreaming, a regal Evergreen and very moving Heroes Never Die.

Wishbone Ash has been around a looong time and this wasn’t lost on Andy Powell who quipped about the age of band and audience, and the relevance of new song Life in Crisis to them. They opened with the long The Pilgrim and ended the main set with the equally lengthy Phoenix, with lots in-between showing off their skills playing jazz, blues, prog and hard rock, somtimes all at the same time. There were some old songs, and new because as Powell was at pains to point out they are going concern, and then proceded to plug a new track available to download! Ageing, well yes, but who cares. This was a thoroughly enjoyable show from a band totally relaxed with themselves, their music and their audience.