The Sage at Gateshead - a review

A couple of years ago, John Tobler, owner of RGF Records, asked me to produce a set of sleeve notes to accompany his new release, a double album containing the first two recordings by `The Dylan Project`. Being of the school of thought that `nobody sings Dylan like Dylan`, I was a little sceptical. The redeeming feature, however, seemed to be that the band consisted of some of my favourite musicians from over the years. On further listening, it became increasingly apparent that this was not another tribute band, but a group of stunning musicians capable of interpreting these wonderful songs in their own unique way. In 2010 John released a second album, this time with some previously unheard bonus tracks and graciously asked me to once again write the notes.

The fact that I was so blown away, not only by the stunning musicianship, but also by the amazing choice of material...led to my wife Sue and I braving the December blizzard to eventually arrive at `The Sage` in Gateshead in time to meet John and have a welcome and much appreciated drink with Peggy and Ellen.The theatre was pretty much full, despite the atrocious weather, as the band opened their set with the only non- Dylan song of the evening, the excellent `Colours to the Mast`, a Steve Gibbons' original.
As this was, apparently, the first time in 12 years that the band were actually playing from a set list, the songs continued to flow seamlessly throughout the evening. Continuing with a rousing version of `Tonight I`ll be Staying Here with You `with its powerhouse rhythm section of Gerry Conway and Dave Pegg, followed by`Down Along The Cove` which featured a tremendous accordion accompaniment from Phil Bond.

The fabulous, somewhat underrated `Born in Time` slowed the tempo and was the perfect vehicle for Steve's superb vocals and P J`s stunning guitar work. By now, the audience was eagerly awaiting and anticipating each new song as at a Dylan show.

Superb versions of two lesser known songs followed...`Lonesome Hobo` from J.W.H. ( again enhanced by great accordion ) and `Sweetheart Like You` which was performed with real feeling and gave the impression that it could be one of Steve`s personal favourites ??

TV Talking Song provided a change of style, being the only `talking blues` of the evening...a form which was common in Dylan`s early performances and recordings but which all but disappeared until this offering from `Under the Red Sky`. I think I prefer the DP version to the original!

Following an excellent rendition of `Handle with Care ` from the Wilburys' period, came, what for me, were two highlights of the night. Firstly, an emotive version of another lesser known Dylan masterpiece,` Dark Eyes` from `Empire Burlesque`.The arrangement was superb and created an incredibly evocative atmosphere in the theatre. This was followed by the magnificent `Gotta Serve Somebody`. Anyone who hadn't realised it already, must have known at this point that they were witnessing five of Britain`s greatest musicians at the very top of their game! Simply everything about this song was brilliant, from the vocal to the playing and not least the wonderful arrangement.
`Rainy Day Women` and an outstandingly different arrangement of a Bob favourite `Ballad of a Thin Man` began a 4 song set featuring Dylan`s Blonde on Blonde/Highway 61 period. The other two, the grossly underrated `Leopard Skin Pill Box Hat` and a sublime performance of `Just Like a Woman` conjured up images of mid 60`s NYC. I swear I saw the ghost of Edie Sedgewick looking down from the balcony behind the band ! (could've just been a pretty blonde girl from Newcastle or Gateshead tho`... I suppose.....still, nice to dream!)

The evening rolled on with one brilliant performance after another, culminating in the two real surprises of the show....firstly a version of the Dylan classic which has probably never before been covered (at least successfully),`Sad Eyed Lady of the Lowlands` from Blonde on Blonde. Performed at a much faster tempo than the original, this was an intriguing arrangement which highlighted the imagination and originality of The Dylan project. The encore was perhaps even more surprising..a rousing rendition of `Here Comes Santa` from D`s Christmas in the Heart album. As well as being a great performance, the band obviously thoroughly enjoyed the song..a fact which shone through to an audience eager to join in the fun !!

All in all, it was certainly worth the battle with the elements to be part of such a memorable night, and to witness these great performers and master craftsmen at the peak of their game. It is hard to imagine a better line up than Steve, Peggy, PJ, Gerry and Phil. Thanks a million for a great evening. I should also mention the superb venue...well worth a visit for anyone who hasn't yet been !

- Ray Dobson