Norwich gigs continue to come thick and fast, in all types of venues and with extremely diverse sounds. On Thursday The Plasterers opened its doors to a different type of school night music, on this occasion somehow managing to fit all eight members of BRG into the stage area, featuring Shane O’Linski, Chad Mason et al. they presented a glorious racket of insistent driving rhythms and repetition with hints here and there of the Velvets and Fall, Stereolab, and even a bit of goth. I loved them, especially pleased to hear them in a great little pub like this.

Despite being a trio Grazing Saints are more than capable of being equally loud and powerful and were in characteristically good form. I was interested to see how a Thursday night drinking crowd would receive them – I think it’s fair to say they loved both acts and the place was pretty much full.

The Grazing Saints
(c) shashamane

(c) shashamane

(c) shashamane

On the Sunday I caught some of the Fine City Blues Explosion Festival, having already missed numerous big and small gigs around the city for Dave Thomas’ event but I was able to see him play with The Syndicators at The Walnut Tree Shades in the afternoon. They were loud and very good, and even a request for the drummer to move his car mid-set was not enough to throw them off their stride! Following The Syndicators was Kat & Co., and Dove and Boweevil.

There was a good and strong line up at the Shades but having nipped out for some fresh air and a chat it was barely possible to get back in again! I did however want to catch the always excellent Anna Mudeka Band at the welcoming and friendly Blueberry as well so headed down there about 4:30 and caught most of their first set and all of their energetic, brilliant second set. They are currently recording a new album and are sounding tight, I look forward to hearing the results of their recording sessions.

Anna Mudeka Band
(c) shashamane

Anna Mudeka Band
(c) shashamane

Anna Mudeka Band
(c) shashamane

When their set concluded I made my way once again to The Plasterers where it was Lady Day, the finale to the Blues City Explosion, and already the place was jam-packed with musicians and music fans. I was able to catch a few of the performers, including Dana and Dave Dixon, and Yve Mary B but again, after going outside to cool down could not get back in again. Not for the first time, this brilliant pub was full and the atmosphere amazing. Outside I was at least able to hear Lauren Dove, Malaya Blue, and even a cameo from Jonny from Killamonjambo on sax.

Steve with Dana and Dave Dixon
(c) shashamane

Words and photos, richard shashamane (c) 2014 all rights reserved. Photos not to be used without permission.

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