How can I put this...........?
I'm not normally one for shouting, but DO NOT MISS THIS TOUR!
I've had a real blast these last couple of nights - firstly an impulse return to the Assembly at Leamington on Wednesday, and then with Mrs Icon in tow, the Robin 2 at Bilston on Thursday.
There is so much energy and excitement about these three acts, and it's infectious.
It was great to return to Leamington on wednesday, the scene of our last big forum meet, and a decent sized crowd enjoyed storming sets from Virgil, Joanne, and Oli, the latter with another new bass player (for this tour) in Gaz Rackham (who played on Oli's album). Watch out for Gaz's bass solo guys - mesmerising! The Accelerators (Gabe and Tom) are learning the ropes fast - they are also Joanne's rhythm section for this tour, and a great job they do!
Last night's gig at the Robin was truly electifying. The biggest crowd I've seen there for ages on a blues-rock night were well up for it, and they were treated to performances from all three bands that had the place buzzing.
Virgil managed to get his hands on another Bonamassa Les Paul that he put through it's paces on "Had to Cry Today". Although VATA only play a short set on this tour, they take no prisoners! Gotta say that performace was the best I've seen yet - they really have moved up a gear.
Joanne has a good local following at the Robin and she picked up where Virgil left off with a high energy set, despite still being a little jet lagged. Jo was lifted by the energy from the crowd, and really brought the house down with "Blackest Day".
By the time Oli took to the stage,the place was really buzzing, and he picked up on that and produced possibly the best set I've seen him play. Oli really feeds off the audience and last night he had them in the palm of his hand. I think this young star has actually taken things up a level with his live show - his singing, and even more so, his playing, have taken a leap forward, and with his own individual style I forsee a big breakthrough before too much longer.
Good to meet up with Scoot again at Leamington, and Geoff, Sue, and Pete59 at the Robin.
Well - two late, great, nights - and I'm knackered - I've got a gig myself tonight so it's time to cram in some last minute practice 
I took lots of photos but they'll have to wait. I'll post some over the weekend.
Ian
Please be in no doubt that this is the REAL ME! Beware imposters........................
