Roddy Woomble & Friends / Foxface

Taking a break from Idlewild, Roddy Woomble starts his first gig proper of his solo career (he played a short acoustic set the previous night in the album launch party in Glasgow), with songs that embrace traditional Scottish folk music and a selection of some very talented musicians such as John McCusker, Aildh Lennon, and many more.

The support came from Glaswegian trio Foxface, who sound not unlike a cross of My Latest Novel and Sons & Daughters, and power through a set including the two songs from the 7” only EP “Monster Seas”. Vocally they’re strong and the two singers harmonise well, and the music is very tightly played. At worst they are worth a curious listen. At best, they’re utterly enchanting.

Despite the gig being seated, the atmosphere in the Lemon Tree is electric, and the tiny café room is packed full of a split of die-hard Idlewild fans, and people merely curious to see what Roddy’s foray into folk will amount to.

The set manages to please both parties, opening with a version of “You Held The World In Your Arms” stripped down to acoustic guitar, violin and accordion, which suit the lyrics of the song much better, and bring out the true beauty of the song.

In the line-up thereÂ’s no Kate Rusby or Karine Polwart who both guest on the album, however Michael and Jenny from Foxface take their places, and before long, the stage is full of talented musicians, and Roddy is a charming host, making sure everyone is enjoying themselves and joking with the crowd.

Roddy and his band then proceed to play most of the solo album, the highlights including the tender “Act IV”, the albums title track, and “Waverly Steps”. Some technical glitches in the set are forgiven, because despite the nature of the delays being preventable with prior planning, tonight feels like a collection of friends having a good time and playing the music they love, which is a good thing – the music in places is not the fully authentic folk that some people expected, but more folk-rock on the faster-paced numbers, almost reminiscent of the Levellers.

It’s when the music is stripped down on songs such as “Play Me Something” and “I Came In From The Mountain” that the music shines, and is a reminder that Roddy is truly one of the most talented songwriters in the country.

Closing with the instrumental “Whiskeyface”, Idlewild classic “American English”, “If I Could Name Any Name” and a Woody Guthrie cover, the night has a real sense of being an overwhelming success.

Despite a few inevitable debut night problems, the performance had a charming and personal quality to it, the album stands up to the test of a live performance, and as darkness descends on Aberdeen, the band liaise with fans and help man the merchandise stall. It would be a shame if this solo tour was a one-off, as when the tour comes to an end, there is a promise that Roddy Woomble may become a truly special folk musician as well as a talented rock star.

FUTURE GIGS