Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *
To be 16 and have the world to explore and be part of the new music renaissance that has been making itself known in the last few years must be a thrilling and exciting prospect. In amongst the burgeoning singer/songwriters, superb groups and dedicated musicians that have put the city firmly in the mind of those seeking a new wave of artists now stands Dominic Dunn.
To open up for Miles Hunt and Erica Nockalls at the intimate Rodewald Suite inside the Philharmonic Hall is an honour and could overawe even the most seasoned of professionals, Dominic however certainly seems to be made of stern Liverpool stuff that does his music and the area of Kirkdale proud.
The set may have been short but it was befitting the evening’s entertainment and played with a lot of vitality that is heartening to see in someone so young. The young lad from Kirkdale does not seem to suffer with nerves or any lack of confidence it has to be noted. What was also heartening to witness; was that out of the seven songs he performed for the audience who it has to be said were there more the main attraction than a support act, of any calibre, five of them were his own work, something that does Dominic much favour in a profession that can be ready to chew up any type of talent if they only perform other people’s songs night after night. With so much that is wrong in the world, to rely on cover versions of well-worn out songs goes against the grain.
Dominic certainly didn’t have to worry about that as he performed admirably and superbly songs of his own making such The Other Side, You’re Not Mine, Through The Streets and Away From the Tide. In amongst these there were a couple of cover songs performed but Dominic has this wonderful knack of making them seem fresh and not tired and dejected. It’s not many people that would choose to perform The Clash’s Stay Free for instance with incurring wrath from the loyal fans of the band. Dominic performed it well and it even raised a smile on even the most ardent of Clash devotees in the audience.
A welcome addition to the night at the Rodewold Suite, Dominic Dunn is a young man with a big talent and fine voice that will go down well in the years to come.
Ian D. Hall