The most important month of the year is upon us. The end of British Summertime, a day of atonement in the temple, global harvests prepare the world for winter and my birthday (in order of importance – ascending). And whilst Dionysus and Demeter argue at Threshers, Birmingham gorges from a trough of autumnal musical goodness.
With a phenomenal schedule this month the O2 Academy kicks of with Nerina Pallot (Oct 5th). If you see smoke above Bristol St that’s just me combusting with lust. Pallot’s major label releases were somewhat over produced, but when it’s simply her and a piano I become borderline obsessive (Google her Abbey Road sessions. Do it. Do it NOW).
Across town the HMV Institute spits in our face with The Feeling (Oct 7th, although with a well placed gas leak it could be Christmas come early) but wipes it clean with Ed Sheeran (Oct 11th). Possibly the most interesting UK artist of recent years, Sheeran has evolved what’s seen as acoustically possible. Rewriting old doctrines, challenging collaborations and beguiling word play, he’s like Mandelson with a guitar. And a soul. Sorry Ed that’s a horrific analogy. Go see this gig and apologise for me.
In Birmingham’s diamonds and pearls auditoriums Crosby & Nash play the Symphony Hall (Oct 20th) with Bill Wyman’s Rhythm Kings at the Town Hall (Oct 26th). It’s not Young or with swagger, but expect some misbehaving on the ring-and-ride into town.
Also worth noting are Emmy The Great (Glee – Oct 4th), Chris Ty Band (Yardbird – Oct 5th), Bombay Bicycle Club (O2 – Oct 13th), Pop Will Eat Itself (O2 – Oct 28th), Stiff Little Fingers (HMV- Oct 20th) and the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Brittan (Symphony Hall – Oct 26th). And whilst October’s cup runneth over I excitedly scan the listings for something to do on my actual birthday, disappointedly realising there’s only Cliff Richard (LG Arena – Oct 22nd). So pub it is then, first round on Live Nation. Literally the least they can do.
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