Horace Andy // Norwich Arts Centre, 18.04.14
Like many of the older reggae artists Horace’s voice sounded absolutely perfect – sweet, delicate and soulful.
Once again Norwich Arts Centre continues to punch above its weight by attracting yet another reggae legend to our fine city. Over the past few years we’ve been graced by The Abyssinians, Johnny Clarke, Mighty Diamonds and recently the epic double header with Yellowman & Dillinger. Arguably though, Horace Andy is the biggest name yet to appear at the venue. With over 40 years in the business, and his on-off collaborations with Massive Attack introducing him to a whole new audience, things were set for a great night.
There was a strangely flat atmosphere at the venue considering it was a Good Friday night gig, although there were plenty of people in attendance. By the time the warm up act and DJs had finished though, the hall was buzzing as the Dub Asante band began proceedings. As is customary at reggae shows, they played a short set before the main man strolled on stage to rapturous applause. Looking damn sharp and in fine voice, he seemed very happy to be here. The set was a mix of classics from throughout his career – original rockers like Man Next Door and Fever and of course plenty of Massive Attack tracks, Spying Glass and Hymn Of The Big Wheel being personal highlights.
Special mention to Dub Asante band who provided expert backing, with some great guitar work bringing an almost psychedelic touch to some of the songs. The trombone player (sorry…don’t know his name) was phenomenal, adding a joyous quality to the show. 'Skylarking' is probably Horace’s best known track and I swear it morphed into full-on drum ‘n’ bass halfway through – awesome.
Like many of the older reggae artists Horace’s voice sounded absolutely perfect – sweet, delicate and soulful. The low key start to the night was now long forgotten, everyone was loving it. After the main set ended we were treated to an extended encore and after ninety minutes that was it. It turns out that Horace has a fear of flying and knowing that made it even more of a privilege to get to see him in the flesh.
If we keep buying the tickets, the bands will keep on coming, so do yourself a favour the next time a living legend comes through town – head on down to the Arts Centre (for that is surely where they will be playing) and grab an increasingly rare opportunity to see some of the original pioneers.
Stuart Preston
