27 May 2025 (gig)
27 May 2025
Even though Young Gun Silver Fox might rank high on the list of worst band names, I’ve always had a soft spot for them. So, I was genuinely delighted to hear they’d be performing live in Italy—at the iconic Blue Note Milano, no less. This marked their debut Italian show, an exciting milestone for the London-based soul-pop duo comprising Andy Platts and Shawn Lee. Considering they’ve just released their fifth album, Pleasure, it felt like this moment was long overdue.
At this point in their career, the duo has built a solid and consistent body of work. While few bands willingly embrace the “yacht rock” label, there’s no denying the influences in their sound—Fleetwood Mac, The Jacksons, Michael McDonald, Hall & Oates, and Atlanta Rhythm Section, just to name a few.
Both Andy and Shawn are seasoned professionals in the industry. Andy is the founding member of Mama’s Gun and co-writer and producer of Take That’s 2023 single This Life. Shawn has collaborated with an eclectic list of artists, from Amy Winehouse and Saint Etienne to Lana Del Rey. Yet, Young Gun Silver Fox clearly isn’t just a side project—this is a long-term venture, driven by both musicians’ intent to make something joyful and enduring. Hopefully, this live show would reflect that energy and intent.
Typically, the Blue Note in Milan hosts two sets per night to cater to tourists, but this evening there was just one. That might suggest limited demand, but inside, it was a full house with a palpable buzz. The audience was made up of dedicated fans, and their energy created a warm and enthusiastic welcome as the band took the stage.
it’s four-piece band on stage tonight: Shawn on guitar, Andy on keyboards, an Australian bassist (Paul Housden), and Jan on drums. First off, the sound in the venue was impeccable—perhaps the best I’ve heard at the Blue Note, and I’ve been there many a time. The band’s backing vocals were especially impressive. It’s one thing to hire professional backup singers; it’s another when the band handles harmonies themselves. It adds a dimension of unity and elevates the listening experience.
Andy Platts deserves particular mention. His vocals are effortlessly smooth, reminiscent of Daryl Hall, moving through three octaves with soulful joy and masterful dynamic control. Clearly, the proverbial 10,000 hours have been invested. When the band locked into a groove, it was both satisfying and powerful—tight, textured, and deeply musical. There was focus on stage, but also space for playful spontaneity, especially in how they opened and closed songs. Bassist Paul Housden was cool and assured, locking in beautifully with Jan Keye’s sharp, hi-hat-driven drumming, all supporting the melodic interplay of electric piano and guitar.
The setlist featured many songs from the new album, Pleasure, which sonically aligns with their earlier records. That consistency might be a limitation on record, as the similar tempos can blend together. But live, with more edge and looseness, everything comes to life and swings with a charm and vibrancy that studio recordings can’t always capture.
Lyrically, the band stays largely within the realm of love—found, lost, or somewhere in between—but they tread familiar ground with intelligence and freshness. Tracks like Lenny and The Greatest Loser stood out for their lyrical wit and musical finesse. In fact, the seamless transition from the sparkling pop of Lenny into the hard funk of Tip of the Flame might have been the best ten minutes of live music I’ve experienced this year.
What Young Gun Silver Fox bring to the stage, above all, is that elusive “feel-good factor.” Everyone in the room was smiling by the end of the night—and that, more than anything, is the mark of a great live show.
The band has upcoming tour dates across Europe, some in the U.S., and hopefully more shows in larger UK venues. They certainly deserve a broader audience. If you get the chance, I urge you to see them live.
Setlist:
1. Winners
2. Kids
3. Rolling Back
4. Burning Daylight
5. Late Night Last Train
6. Love Guarantee
7. Born to Dream
8. The Greatest Loser
9. You Can Feel It
10. Mojo Rising
11. Simple Imagination
12. Lenny
13. Tip Of The Flame
14. Stevie & Sly
15. Long Way Back
16. Kingston Boogie
