I was lucky enough to see William Elliot Whitmore last week - for free, Thank you Dave :) - at the Grand Theatre. They've recently finished a conversion which has literally taken years. It seems the front has been covered in scaffolding forever. Anyway, there's now a new auditorium/venue in there. It's very, eh, regal looking! There's real, actual chandeliers and I thought I'd spill wine on the carpet.
I'd never heard of him before and I feel guilty to say I wasn't that fussed to go. Ignorant little fiend I am. He is captivating. The moment he sat down and spoke, everybody just hushed and paid attention. I was completely engrossed and I didn‘t want him to stop. It’s basically just him, a banjo and his foot. Occasionally he uses an acoustic guitar. He played new material apparently, but it was all new to me. He's defined as acoustic folk soul. Take your pick. Listen to him and buy something. Now.
He was opening for a singer called Alela Diane, folk-y Americana from North California. Gorgeous voice. It’s not the genre of music I really listen to at home, but live it’s so charming. Definitely check her out. Her bass player had some funky moves…
It was a strange atmosphere as it’s a brand new venue and the auditorium is all seated, we were sat up on the balcony. It’s ideal for intimate gigs, but very different to the punk shows I’m used to. I liked it though, I felt quite grown up!
William stayed at aforementioned Dave's house. I must say, it was pretty surreal to eat pizza and watch Ace Ventura with William E. Whitmore. Every time he speaks you get this feeling that you MUST listen. We also had a discussion about how we should address him when he arrived (there’s some pretty funny anecdotes RE: this conversation!). I think it was just strange to spend the night with this guy who you just saw sing out his heart.
Furthermore, I love him by default - he has an owl tattooed on his hand.
http://www.myspace.com/williamewhitmore
http://www.myspace.com/alelamusic
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