09 Apr "Concert is testament to Gram's greatness"
Evening News – Scotland
Reviewed by Jason Hall
GRAM PARSONS is truly a musician’s musician. From country legends like Emmy-Lou Harris to more commercial modern artists such as U2, Elvis Costello and The Rolling Stones, his influence extends far wider than his country-rock label might suggest.
While his premature death in 1973 may have upgraded his status from respected musician to something of a cultural icon, it also robbed the world of an extraordinary talent. With three acts boasting an outstanding line-up of top-drawer musicians, this tribute night at The Venue was testament to Gram Parson’s enduring appeal. First up was American singer/songwriter Greg Trooper. Alone on the stage with nothing but his guitar for accompaniment, Trooper produced a lively set of his own compositions; at times, reminiscent of Nick Lowe, Dave Edmunds and Scotland’s own Dougie Maclean. Much has been made of Edinburgh band The Felsons in light of their support slot for The Mavericks’UK tour. This was a rare chance for them to play before a home crowd. The Felsons complemented their own compositions with two of the best, and most famous, Gram Parson’s tracks – Brass Buttons and Honky Tonk Woman. Sid Griffin and The Coal Porters rounded off the show with a more direct tribute by devoting their entire set to Parsons compositions. As Parsons’ biographer and, arguably, his most devoted fan, there is no-one better than Griffin to pay homage to Gram’s work.