Wayne Hussey 

Friday 10th October 2014

The Tivoli, Buckley

Seems like I’m at the Tiv every other week these days…  This time, it was to see Wayne Hussey, he of The Mission, performing a solo acoustic set.  Somehow I’ve never managed to see The Mission live, so this was a nice tick in the box. 

The gig starts late, due to Wayne being stuck in traffic on the M56.  No matter, there’s no support band, just Wayne and his tech guy tonight.  When we get in the venue, the familiar lay out is augmented by a few tables and chairs down the front.  I’ve never seen anything like that in the Tivoli before.  It’s a nice indication of how the gig will be.  We didn’t manage to scrounge any seats though, so we stood near the front.

The set consists of some Mission songs and some covers, with Wayne solo on guitar or keyboard, and some backing track/drums.  We get a magnificent “Black Mountain Mist” and covers including All About Eve’s “Martha’s Harbour”.

Some may expect a gloomy goth vibe, but there’s none of that – Wayne is relaxed and in good spirits, adding some stories and humour between songs.  It’s a great way to experience an artists music – an intimate atmosphere where the songs are allowed to shine.

I would’ve liked some more songs from the Children and Carved in Sand albums, but there’s no complaints.  Wayne Hussey seems to enjoy himself, and it’s a treat for the audience to see an artist up close and personal.

I can’t remember much more as the Stella in the Tiv made me loopy.  Great night.