Jonathan Richman + Tommy Larkins – Brudenell Social Club, Leeds 25/2/12

It’s been a couple of years since Jojo last came to town.  It’s always a privilege to be in the same room as him and tonight he was on great form – can’t believe he’s 60! Though often off mike (as is his want) the sound of his acoustic guitar travelled well in the Brudenell thanks to a lack of the usual yakking at the bar (Glad I’m not the only one who feels this way). Apart from a bit of Egyptian Reggae and Vincent Van Gogh, all his set came from his recent output with some fabulous guitar licks.

“I never go anywhere without Tommy” he says and if I had a drummer like him, I’d take him everywhere with me too. The crowd at times were a bit reserved “This isn’t the kind of show you just watch!” but everyone seemed to warm to his ‘Bohemia‘ song and sang along. “When I was 16 my parents didn’t stand in my way…..with my pretentious art portfolio in my hand…..they showed me the door to Bohemia”. Other versions are available….. see at the great jojo blog site.

Thanks to Justine and Matt for the tickets – sorry you guys couldn’t make it……can’t wait for next time.

Bob the Chiropodist