I’ve heard the latest, excellent record (check out the 5/5 reviews at Amazon.co.uk) and the time had arrived for me to check out Sayce’s live credentials. This gig was in the very small O2 venue which immediately raised concerns over its ability to handle what could be a fairly explosive rock performance. The stage set-up was one of the most organised I’ve seen but for a guitarist it was rare not to see a range of instruments lined up waiting for the call to duty…

Sayce’s touring band includes bassist Joel Gottschalk and drummer Fritz Lewak, while he takes on lead vocals and guitar. I had already been surprised by one lightning bolt from a clear blue sky with Bonfanti and here was another! Opening with ‘One Foot In The Grave’ from his first album, PEACE MACHINE, Sayce’s high energy riffing set the tone of the devestating show that followed. By second song ‘Powerful Thing’ Sayce was gleaming with sweat along with his band who were no less animated in their support role. This was followed by one of the album’s other standout tracks, ‘Over My Head’, and by this time both the audience and myself are pretty well blown away by what we had seen and heard.

The time had arrived for Sayce and Co to unpackage some of the goodies from the newest album starting with the startling rhythmic trad rocker ‘Bitter Monday.’ Then it was time for another album highlight, ‘Changes’, with its clever chord changes, poewrful melody, incendiery riffs and explosive vocal. It struck me then that this great performer and his magnificent band shouldn’t be peddling his wares in this tiny venue but at the very least supporting a major headliner in arenas around the world. Yes folks, he’s that good.

I vacated the pit and stood at the back of the venue where the music sounded even better! And the great performances and songs just continued to rain down including a highly respectful cover of Neil Young’s ‘Cinnamon Girl’ and the concert’s glorious instrumental closer ‘Alchemy’ (which also closed the deal on me acquiring the last album). Without doubt this is one of the finest blues-rock instrumental songs I’ve heard.

Sayce’s performance was passionate, involving and one of the most expressive I can remember (move over Satriani!). His guitar work is sublime and vocal quality up there with the very best rocking leadmen. Sayce’s sidemen were also pretty amazing and I came away believing that these guys live for their music, especially in a live arena. One word - AMAZING!

Philip Sayce Interview On the technical aspects of his live shows:

http://fretpoint.com/2010/11/01/philip-sayce-interview/

“‘Changes’ is my favorite because we can really stretch out on this one, depending on the night. It’s a great drum & bass workout for Fritz and Joel, and we often break it down in the middle and explore and look to invent new ways for us to bring it all home.” - Philip Sayce

“The set list will include songs from my 2 albums, ‘Peace Machine’ and ‘INNEREVOLUTION’. I truly hope the new music resonates within the audience. It’s all coming from our souls and hearts, so I hope it inspires people to do the same with whatever it is they love to do in life; It’s so important to me, I have to play and sing my truth. It’s my responsibility.” - Philip Sayce

More Exclusive Show Images Here:

http://www.shakenstir.co.uk/index.php/gallery/?album=3169&gallery=1708

SET-LIST

One Foot In The Grave, Powerful Thing, Over My Head, Bitter Monday, Changes, At The Years, Are You Ready, Take You Away, Angels/Live Inside, Cinnamon Girl/Heavy, Alchemy.