Richmond Fontaine, Grayson Capps, Luther Russell.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 13th October 2007.

Once again, Esquires demonstrated its broad contrast as the glo-sticks of a few days back are just a distant memory, as this evening is all about Americana.

The first acoustic artist is a gentleman by the name of LUTHER RUSSELL who, not surprisingly, is on his first visit to Bedford. Tall and thin with a bushy black beard, his first song tonight is "Repair", which he informs us is only available in the states or here on import. It is beautifully played and, much like the rest of the set, it keeps me transfixed. Unfortunately, Luther has to perform "My Own Blood" without its usual piano accompaniment, but it does not detract from the powerful lyrical effectiveness. While his parting shot has him calling his mates from Richmond Fontaine to join him for "Nothing Else Remains".

At 7pm (prior to the gig) a shaggy haired, bearded 'hippy' gentleman (no offence to hippies!) approached me in the downstairs bar enquiring about tonight's show. Assuming he was here to watch the show, I then informed him that the doors were 8pm. He then politely replied that he was GRAYSON CAPPS, a little late and playing tonight! Wow what a character. This rather haggard, veteran type is an old throwback to the look of Woodstock in 1969, far out man! The guy possesses such gin-soaked vocals as he tells poignant stories of rural and rustic America. They come alive as his rich tales tell of growing up in Alabama, of leaving at 18 to head for New Orleans, which he says with a wry smile "is a great place to be if you're homeless".
Grayson Capps' set is a pure university of American life as he performs songs from his current album "Wait and Ride". He closes, ruefully admitting that he is probably drinking too much! As an old cowboy song "Ghost Riders in the Sky" sees him on his way, the loud and long applause is fitting.

After the genuine warmth of the previous acoustic gents, it's time to greet, all the way from Portland, Oregon, RICHMOND FONTAINE. This is their third appearance and the second time I have seen them. However, after the heady heights of crusty old Grayson Capps, this alternative country collective only fill me with tedious boredom.