The weather gods were still shining on Boy Child and I as we boarded the 525 to Glasgow last Friday night. The only minor weather issue – those weather gods forgot to crank up the thermostat. It was freezing!

With more than a hint of déjà vu for Boy Child, we caught the subway out to Hillhead then set off in search of the venue for the evening -Oran Mor.

Both of us were more than a little curious to hear what the night would bring.

So, who were we going to see?

The legendary Raw Dawg himself, American blues/funk/rock guitarist Eric Gales. ( Boy Child wanted to hear him speak as much as he wanted to hear him play. Love that Memphis accent.)

There was only one support act for the evening and that was Danny Bryant, the British Blues guitarist and singer/songwriter. Not too sure what I expected but what struck me first was how down to earth and (I hate to use the term) normal he seemed. He also came across as a little shy and awkward or perhaps he was a little nervous being in front of the small Scottish crowd.

This is where I am going to apologise to Mr Bryant. I am not familiar with his music (Blues isn’t usually my thing) and therefore I can’t single out specific songs from his forty-minute set to highlight. What I can say is that for those forty minutes I was held transfixed. I was mesmerised by the tones he was getting out of his guitar. So much emotion in those six strings. Loved it!

Oh, and I hope you found a buyer for that Betamax fitness video, sir.

Shortly before eight thirty, the lights dimmed, and strains of O Fortuna began to fill the room. Eric Gales took to the stage to rapturous but polite applause from the capacity crowd. (Oran Mor holds around 400)

I had no idea what to expect but this guy oozed charisma right from that first smile.

Eric Gales – Show Opening Instrumental Jam @ Oran Mor Glasgow 01/04/22 – YouTube

Much to Boy Child’s delight, Eric Gales talks almost as much as he plays but in this small venue it added to the intimacy of the show. Honestly, you could listen to this guy tell stories and play all night!

The set was primarily made up of tracks from his current album The Crown.

All evening what struck me was the rapport between Eric Gales and his band (sorry, didn’t catch all the names- my bad) and Eric Gales and the audience. Yes, he’s the “big” name out there but each musician was given their fair share of solos and recognition.

Bass player, Smoke Face, who was standing in front of me slightly to my left, fascinated me. Initially, I was a little taken aback by the beanie hat and full-face mask but loved the quirkiness of the smoke trailing out from under his mask every so often throughout the evening. Different.

Highlight moments for me included You Don’t Know The Blues (so true, I’m no Blues expert) and Survivor.

My personal favourite song was probably The Storm from The Crown. There’s just something about that song that resonates with my soul.

Another highlight moment preceded by a Joey B story was Put It Back

Eric Gales – Put It Back @ Oran Mor Glasgow 010422 – YouTube

Momentarily, mid-set, Eric Gales surrendered the spotlight to his wife LaDonna Gales who up til then had been playing percussion. LaDonna stepped up to the mic and delivered a solid rendition of Take Me Just As I Am. It was clear for all to see just how supportive Eric Gales is of his good lady wife. Lovely moment.

Take Me Just As I Am – Erica Gales ft LaDonna Gales @ Oran Mor 01/04/22 – YouTube

When he came out at first, Eric Gales said he hoped that at least one person would leave the venue feeling inspired. This guy is beyond talented so its hard not to feel inspired when you watch and listen to him play. His whole story and lyrics are also inspirational.  Check out The Crown and judge for yourselves.

Towards the end of the set, a female member of the audience (a little the worse for drink most likely) shouted out to him to “Play some f**kin’ Blues!” He took her on quite nicely (firmly and politely) suggesting that if she wanted to hear Blues rather than his personal mix of Blues/Rock/Funk that she listen to some alternative artists. (I’m naming no names here). He started to play the next song on the setlist, Too Close To The Fire, then stopped playing. He stopped his band too then reflected back to his earlier comment about hoping to inspire at least one person in the room adding if the lady wanted to hear some “f**kin’ Blues” then he’d play her some “f**kin’ Blues – cue impromptu Blues solo! Incredible playing and the best way ever to shut up a heckler. Well played, sir! Loved it!

All good things have to come to an end and with a 10pm curfew looming, Eric Gales rounded off the night with the spectacular I Want My Crown.

Sir, you’ve more than earned that crown! Awesome show. Incredible musician. Such a large character. Loved it. Hurry back, please…. Oh, and add some tees to your merch stall.