Come Strut Your Stuff

Egg Café, Newington
10th May 2010

Reviewed by Dominic Murphy

It was a damp cold evening but Liverpool was still bustling as I fought my way out of Lime Street station to make my first visit to the Egg café. I must admit as I turned off Renshaw Street into Newington and observed the humble café building; I was not expecting the rich talent that I was led to believe was on offer neither the cosy interior I was expecting.

The old and over used cliché ‘don’t judge a book by it cover’ is most apt. As I opened the small wooden double doors, I uncovered a most fascinating and captivating world; obviously the heart of Liverpool’s culture still beats loud. The aroma of home cooked food delighted the senses as I sat readying myself for a celebration of culture and a feast of talent from every corner of Merseyside and beyond. The scene was set as lights dimmed an Stan the harpist began serenading the audience with his elegant instrument, which he does in all the intervals too.

There were no low points during the night and hand on heart I enjoyed every performance. However a special mention has to be made for the following.

Toney Kehoe was a polished and confident guitarist singer/songwriter. His performance of ‘Concrete and Barbed Wire’ with his young daughter Lillie sent a shiver down my spine. There was a host of guitarists, the best being Paul who glided across the frets with ease, he had a great voice too but could have done with a microphone. Live saxophones always demand attentions and this was no different when Eddie Croft and David Williams added jazz to the proceedings. A couple of singers performed sets but Joe Aimee commanded the attention of the room with her most powerful, yet soft and soulful singing voice.

There were a host of poets too. Jessica’s poetry deserves a mention as it was touching and very emotional without being too sentimental. She was a first time performer as was Dave Goldsmith who delivered a humorous poem on the Battle of Hastings. Dave ‘Half a Crown' Harley had the room in stitches with his poetry/rap performance. The best poet of the night I felt was Tom George, as his poetry was outstanding and delivered clearly, with pace; his highlight being ‘You Make Me Walk Lightly' which gave me a lump in my throat.

As the acts performed, it became apparent that what I was witnessing was not just thespians showing us how clever hey are or musicians seeking their big break. This was more a mutual love for each others' work and a chance show just how much talent Liverpool has.

Lastly, I honestly felt a more cultured person afterwards and I thank the people and the talent at the Egg café, a true gem in Liverpool’s crown.

Website: www.comestrutyourstuff.co.uk

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Sorry Comments Closed

Comment left by Blaidd Coch on 17th May, 2010 at 18:43
A very good and deep review, not being a huge fan of poetry this has sparked an interest.

Comment left by Graham Holland on 23rd May, 2010 at 17:42
Thanks for the review Dominic, and I'm really glad you enjoyed the event. Mention must be made of Keith Ainsworth who takes the excellent photos for us, and Stan the Harper who helps create such a wonderful atmosphere.

Comment left by Dave Thackeray on 2nd August, 2010 at 18:35
Graham, this sounds like a wonderful event. I think a huge amount of credit should go to YOU for getting these things together. If it's as incredible as the Acoustic Club then I'm nominating you for a 'hood of some kind.