Gig Review: ERIC MARTIN (Mr Big), Live Lounge, Cardiff, 19 March 2013

Mr Big, made a series of excellent hits dominating the 90s. Eventually they split up in 2002, then after a long break and a reunion in 2009 they decided to stay together and produce a new album in 2011.

The vocalist Eric Martin has been in the game since 18, with his unique vocal talent. Working with many successful artists and an illustrious solo career, he continues to perform solo acoustic sets. This time, flying in from a gig in Rome late afternoon to Cardiff.

It’s worth noting the venue first, Live Lounge is an independent club, with another one in Ayia Napa. One of Cardiff’s hidden gems, serving food in the day, with feeling you are in restaurant. A classy looking place with a great design and an upstairs bar, stage view balcony. As well as a good standing or dance area, by the stage, with a large bar downstairs. Luxury seating, all around the edges of it all. Friendly door staff, efficient but fun bar staff and with a general cool vibe, that’s open until 4am.

The management decided to book Eric Martin and run the night for free. Obviously on a first come first serve basis.

First up on stage to a packed house, Smokin Aces – an up and coming Cardiff original also covers band. Playing whatever anyone asked for, an impressive approach to well performed acoustic takes on hits. They definitely made an impact on a cheering crowd.

The atmosphere in the club is buzzing, as Eric Martin is announced and casually walks to the stage. Already charming the crowd while techs iron out a few teething set ups. Calmly saying, “Hey these things happen, it won’t be long and we get down to the music folks”

This man’s voice is immense and with perfect acoustic guitar playing accompaniment. Performing a repertoire of rocking hits with an acoustic edge such as ‘Wind Me Up’, ‘Blame It On My Youth’ and ‘Colorado Dog’.

These contrasted with hits like ‘Green Tinted Sixties Mind’ and of course ‘To Be With You’. Never missing a note or pitch, Eric Martin in the raw proves to be a superb vocalist and performer.

After Martin had left the stage another covers band appeared – Groovinators – and during their set Eric Martin reappeared. Now with an electric outfit behind him, Eric belted out some more hits ‘Take A Walk’ and ‘Daddy Brother Lover Little Boy’.

How do you top that, well he stayed around the club. Mixing with fans and partying with all the staff into the early hours. A genuine character indeed and I was fortunate to have a drink and chat with him afterwards. Telling me about how he and Billy Sheehan got together with the vision of forming Mr Big. Stories of L.A. and record labels, Pat Torpey and Paul Gilbert’s work with Robert Plant.

In conclusion, Eric Martin, is one of the most talented and grounded rock stars around. Who seems to be living life, doing what he loves and having fun. With more energy and enthusiasm at 52 years, than most 18 year olds. He puts on a great show and definitely has a lust for live and a good time. And if you are ever in Cardiff, get yourself over to Live Lounge, a warm welcome awaits.

Review and photos by Jeff Oram

Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions, streamed via Facebook.
In 2023 he signed a recording deal with Sony in Canada and released a new single on 15 September.

Next session: Sunday 1 December

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio

David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast on 20 October 2024.

UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). This show was first broadcast 22 October 2024.

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Listen via Windows Media Player. Click or tap here and “open file”
Listen via other media player (eg. VLC) Click or tap here and “open file”

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com

Power Plays w/c 28 October 2024

THE RASMUS Rest In Pieces (Better Noise Music)
THE PLAGUE What Else Can I Do (FiXT)
STAR CIRCUS Turn The Tide (indie)
DEFENCES Breathe It In (Long Branch Records)

Featured Albums w/c 28 October 2024

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003-2023 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003-2023 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003-2023 (Singer Songwriter)