Oysterband – Live Review

It ended with a simple “thank you for everything” from frontman John Jones, with the Oysterband having performed a masterclass in folk rock at a packed-out Wedgewood Rooms. Currently on the road for one last “long, long goodbye”, this iconic band are finally hanging up their instruments after 45 years in the business.

It’s certainly an impressive farewell tour, with each show consisting of a setlist featuring over 20 tunes. After all, there’s a huge back catalogue to pick from and tonight pulled largely from their 90s and 2000s back catalogue – rather than the very early days.

When other bands do a set of 2 halves, some go for the stripped-back vs electric set and others may choose to play an album in full followed by the greatest hits. Not Oysterband, this was 2 parts of equal measure.

Highlights during the early slot were most certainly “Another Quiet Night in England” along with the audience providing some wonderful harmonies during “Deserter“.

Wedgewood Rooms – Live Review

As for after the interval, if anything the main difference was a slight change in momentum. Starting with John Jones donning his melodeon for an up-tempo “When I’m Up I Can’t Get Down“.

It’s fair enough the more thigh-slapping numbers were kept for the latter part of the evening. Although, there were still a couple of beautiful slower ones to help encourage another sing-a-long or two.

The natural crowd participation and a well-balanced mix of songs helped perfect the mammoth gig, during what could easily have become an endurance test. Yet the Oysterband at the Wedgewood Rooms provided an emotional send-off, with another of my favourites “Blood Wedding” appearing before closing on a poignant “Put Out the Lights“.

With that, the band joined arms to take one final bow. If this had been a seated gig, the crowd’s response was that of a never-ending standing ovation.

Good luck in your retirement guys from Mr Teeth, you’ve certainly earned it.

Line-up:

John Jones (Vocals, Melodeon)

Ian Effer (Violin, Keyboards)

Alan Prosser (Guitar)

Sean Randle (Drums, Percussion)

Al Scott (Bass, Mandolin)

Adrian Oxaal (Cello, Guitar)

Disappointed to have missed Oysterband at the Wedgewood Rooms?

Well fear not, the band also announced an appearance at the nearby Wickham Festival in 2025 as part of their long, long goodbye.