Steve Earle - 22 June 2023

We've seen Steve Earle quite a few times starting in 2000 but the last time was nearly eight years ago so it was good to catch him at St Georges on his solo acoustic tour. First up was Roseanne Reid as support a singer songwriter we have seen and enjoyed before as a support act.Her songs are interesting, her voice pleasantly raspy and it was an enjoyable set. I did enjoy the one cover song she did, 'Bluebird' a Miranda Lambert song. Steve Earle ambled on stage and hit his stride early on singing 'Devil's Right Hand' followed by 'My Old Friend the Blues'. About half an hour in I really loved 'Taneytown' and a few songs later an outstanding version of 'Nashville Blues'. He played three instruments during the set a 6-string guitar, a 12-string and a mandolin. On all three he was impeccable and I am always struck at his concerts that he is an outstanding guitarist. No flash solos just rock solid perfection. His voice may be a little less compelling than it used to be but there is no dimunition of his guitar (and mandolin) playing. A lovely version of 'Transcendental Blues', a compelling mining disaster song 'It's about blood' and then the classics 'Galway Girl' and 'Copperhead Road' to finish the main set. The encore included another compelling narrative 'Billy Austin' and then a big finish with 'Jerusalem'. Probably the last time I'll get to see Steve Earle at close range (front row as per) and another impeccable performance from a master.