Nov 16 2017

Martin Simpson, Sunday 12th November 2017

Review by Graham Smout, photos by Peter Graves

Martin Simpson was spellbinding at The Live Room at Saltaire on Sunday evening. Playing a mixture of familiar and newly recorded numbers, Martin paid tribute to the fact that it was Remembrance Sunday by including poignant introductions and songs referencing tragic wartime conflicts across the globe, including the contributions and sacrifices made by members of his own family.

With all seats taken, the audience were treated to an extended set, with encore from Martin, which went on for so long that some would have missed the last bus home – had they been catching buses! The thing that strikes me about Martin is he never compromises in any way in his performance, which is first class entertainment from beginning to end. It was also heartwarming to overhear him talking enthusiastically at the end of the evening with fans about his guitars and styles of playing.

‘It was a great night. His songwriting is amazing’ – Biddy Unsworth