Photograph by Ian D. Hall
Originally published by L.S. Media. December 15th 2011.
L.S. Media Rating ****
Even after 26 years, the musicians and vocalist that make up the band Go West, still have the power to entertain and thrill with their infectious lyrics and well delivered music accompaniment.
Admittedly the band took time from recording and touring out between 1992 and the start of the 21st Century, however time has not diminished the voice of Peter Cox and the ability of Richard Drummie to write exceptional new tunes and return to the early days of their career.
With a mixture of tracks taken from the soon to be released new album 3D including Drive and the fantastic Pocket Call and old favourites including the much loved but underplayed Goodbye Girl, The King is Dead from the album Dancing on the Coach and even some classics from the band’s self-titled debut album including Call Me and the sensational We Close Our Eyes there could be no doubt that Go West meant business and intend to stay around for a long time.
Amongst the fine musicians on stage was the wonderful Deeral on lead guitar. It’s rare to come across such fine musicianship that excels even that of the main members of the band, to come across one who embodies talent in this way is exceptional.
The band came back on stage to give the audience a final bow on an excellent evening’s entertainment. By playing the Kings of Leon track Sex on Fire and the wonderful King of Wishful Thinking from the film Pretty Woman, the up-beat crowd had been in fine voice themselves during the night, were fulfilled in taking a great set from one of the best pop bands of that decade.
Both Richard Drummie and Peter Cox are older than when the band burst onto the scene in 1985 but the drive and generosity that took them into the hearts of pop lovers is still visible, still tangible and still very superb.
Ian D. Hall