Oct 16 2008 12:00 pm, Pic: Laura Pearson

Ragz, Ian McNabb, Jeff Jepson

Korova, Liverpool

21/10/08

 

 

Over recent years Mellowtone has become one of Liverpool’s best and most intimate musical soirees, and so it is fitting that regular contributor Ragz uses this evening as a platform to launch her autumn tour and new EP Bedroom Recordings. Resident DJ collective Musica del Alma soundtrack The Fly's descent into the depths of Korova’s basement bar, whose rough industrial edges are tonight softened by candlelight, delicate drapes and fairy lights – the perfect setting for the evening’s events to unfold.

 

Jeff Jepson is first up tonight, opening strongly and appeasing the patient but increasingly restless crowd with his acoustic guitar and strong vocal delivery. The alt. country Americana comparisons are inevitable, but still he manages to put his own twist on what is a classic sound.

 

As Ragz takes to the stage accompanied for the first time by her newly recruited band, the anticipation is tangible. Opening in familiar fashion as a duo with longstanding collaborator Malcolm, she is direct, engaging and alluring; but when the rest of the band kick in the whole thing moves up a level. Baring her soul through beautifully crafted songs delivered with such a powerful and evocative voice, Ragz is always special, but tonight she is spellbindingly magnificent.

 

So, with the crowd left baying for more as the singer readies herself for her forthcoming tour, tonight’s special guest – Icicle Works legend Ian McNabb – clambers on to the stage clutching Ragz’ guitar in one hand, glass of wine in the other and wearing the biggest grin of the evening so far. McNabb charms the assembled movers and shakers of Liverpool as he slots a selection of covers in amongst his own back catalogue, the crowd eating out of his hands as he launches into a singalong finale of ‘I Saw Her Standing There’ to end proceedings. But it’s Ragz’ star quality that shines through and steals tonight’s show.

 

 

Craig Thompson

 

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