Ryan's Gig Guide

REVIEW: Katie Fitzgerald’s, Stourbridge 24th March Savannah describe themselves as an 'old school British Rock band' from Dawley, Shropshire. by Charlie Darker The band's ethic of work hard, play hard, has seen them build a loyal local following, and since getting together in 2013, the quartet have gained fans across the UK, having played over 1,000 gigs - which is apparent in their relaxed, confident and coherent performance. They've also been pretty prolific on the songwriting & recording front - the release of their latest 4-track EP 'Here & Now' brings the total of their recorded output to 12 singles/EPs released, with an album promised sometime later this year. They are influenced by classic British rock - they mention The Who, Led Zeppelin & The Stone Roses - and I think you can hear the Stone Roses influence on original songs like 'Taxing Times.' The observant & discerning gig-goer will also spot the roots they have in the psychedelic 60s, especially post - Revolver era Beatles, in standout song 'CanYou?' The band throw in a few covers live, to help au- diences relate to their vibe, often from the late 60s/early 70s - songs like Helter Skelter, Super- stition, My Generation, & Nights inWhite Satin. Although their interpretations of these songs are cool and interesting - they add something of their own to the mix, rather than slavishly mim- icking the originals - the real treat is in their own excellent original material. The band have serious pop-rock songwriting skills, Liam Ball's wry & observational lyricism counterpointed by delicious melodic and harmonic interplay be- tween Jason Lewis' guitar and Ellis Holmes' bass, held down by solid & groovy beats from drum- mer Harry Neat, so it is no surprise that the bulk of their set is their own work. And work they certainly do - Katies is a fairly small venue, but the band gave it 100% through- out. I would've liked the opportunity to see them work a larger stage - which seems quite possible, as they have been endorsed by BBC In- droducing Shropshire, and standout track Cold Heart from their latest EP Here & Now has been playlisted by BBC Radio 6's Steve Lamacq. So its looking like you better catch em while you can! #EYUPJOCKEY! www.savannahuk.co.uk  6th MAY Catch them at Branches InThe Park,Telford Town Centre . Savannah are: Liam Ball - Vocals, Jason Lewis - Guitars, Ellis Holmes - Bass, Harry Neat - Drums www.ryansgigguide.com rgg May 2018 25