REEF with Special Guests “A” – Engine Rooms, Southampton
Arriving at Southampton’s Engine Rooms upon the release of their 6th studio album, Reef were ready to go back to basics. As while 2018’s “Revelation” took on new ground with a mixture of soul, blues and even gospel, touring “Shoot me Your Ace” is more straight-up rock n roll.
A – ENGINE ROOMS, SOUTHAMPTON
Any youngsters in the crowd tonight may not have been aware of pop-punks “A” the first time around. Especially given they’ve not released anything new in over 15 years.
However, they may have only been given a mere 6 songs, but A certainly brought back those fond memories of yesteryear. Frontman Jason Perry being reminiscent of early tours, admitting he’s only capable of swinging his arms now, rather than much jumping around.
As such, the singer tried to instigate a sensible walking pit instead of a crazy mosh, whereby encouraging the audience to take a leisurely stroll through the venue. Meanwhile, upon introducing “Starbucks” Perry joked “it’s the same as the first two, only better” and sure enough it sounded as good now as it did 20 years ago.
The crowd reaction though proved this was far from pure nostalgia. As by set closer and top 10 single “Nothing” filled the room, A had certainly impressed any potential newbies.
REEF
Following their previous “Revelation” tour, Reef made a somewhat conscious effort to return to their roots. The setlist pulling only a couple of tunes from said album. Whereas it was to be the complete opposite for “Glow” (released back in 1997).
After all, “Glow” included a lot of the big numbers. Such as “Naked”, “Come Back Brighter” and crowd favourite “Place Your Hands” – all of which were being aired this evening. Although Reef are a band who have always had more than just an occasional banger, largely down to Gary Stringer’s surprisingly versatile vocals.
There are the older hits for sure, but several of the newer tracks from “Shoot me Your Ace” are equally as impressive. Whether it’s the heavier “Wolfman” or something a little less rawk. After all, Reef have also held the secret to the ultimate power ballad and with the chorus of “Right on” the song almost writes itself.
It’s a new tune penned by yeti of a bass player Jack Bessant. Alongside whom tonight stood the band’s newest touring member, Amy Newton on guitar.
Another point of note is the talents of 2nd guitarist Jesse Wood (son of Rolling Stones legend Ronnie) has been playing with Reef for a few years now. Yet Amy is very much a noticeable and welcome addition. Constantly providing another dimension to the riffs, as well as an occasional solo here and there. It’s a natural combination too, given Bessant already plays in her other project Staunton Road.
As for the final third of the set, Reef stormed ahead leaving any of the slower numbers behind them. All of which ended the night screaming along to “Yer Old”, with Gary Stringer and the guys maintaining their more youthful rock star status.
REEF – LIVE INSTORE AND SIGNING
For a more intimate South Coast performance, catch Reef at Southsea’s Pie & Vinyl on Thursday 5th May 2022 (lunchtime).
Read an old Mr Teeth interview with Jack Bessant here
