Album review: RICHARD THOMPSON BAND – Live In Nottingham 1986

Store For Music [Release date 26.01.24]

An archive live performance released on CD for the first time (and with the blessing of Richard Thompson, which is not always the case with these live CDs), recorded on his 1986 tour. Angel Air have previously released a ‘Live in Nottingham 86′, however, that one has a different track listing and this release feels more like a complete show was recorded.

Joining Richard Thompson in his band at that time were Christine Collister, drummer Gerry Conway (who appeared on Jethro Tull’s ‘Crest of a Knave’ album the following year), Clive Gregson and bassist Rory McFarlane.

Gregson and Collister embarked on a series of well received album and tours, starting around the time of this tour. Clive Gregson gets to perform his own song ‘Summer Rain’, whilst Christine Collister adds her melodious backing vocals to many of the songs.

Richard Thompson often gets overlooked in round-up of guitar greats as he is more thought of as a folk artist or singer songwriter. Listening to the Richard & Linda Thompson classic ‘Shoot Out The Lights’ is a perfect example of Thompson’s guitar playing prowess.

Thompson doesn’t limit himself to just one genre, as his own composition ‘Long Dead Love’ has a bluesy feel, whilst the band romp through a spirited version of ‘Mind Your Own Business’, originally by Hank Williams. The set really hits the heights on ‘Tear Stained Letter’ and his cover of Sandy Denny’s ‘John The Gun’.

One for Richard Thompson fans for sure, along with anyone who enjoys guitar driven folk and rock music. ***1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie

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