Chris Helme (The Seahorses) 

Warrington Irish Club

with

special guest Olivia Booth 

10/04/24

A welcome return to the Warrington Irish Club tonight for our headline, Chris Helme. It’s been much anticipated as each time Chris has performed here it’s been a night to remember, and always a full and lively house. Our venue is all seated tonight, the chairs set out in rows, theatre style, really creating an intimate feel. This is a brilliant venue to catch live music, bar prices are super reasonable, the staff are friendly, the sound quality is excellent and it’s a real up close to the musician’s feel. It’s already pretty full in here as I arrive tonight, people are chatting excitedly, looking forward to what is bound to be another stand-out performance by our iconic frontman.

(Olivia Booth_Credit: Artist’s Socal Media)

Support: Olivia Booth 

I’ve seen Olivia a fair few times, both with her full band and solo acoustic, and in either format she truly excels. All original material, performing acoustically tonight with Ed Whitaker-White joining her for some of the set on guitar. With an utterly mesmerising stage presence and very likeable, Olivia is a breath of fresh air. Such clarity within her voice, which she expertly controls, confidently and easily reaching high notes, extending and holding notes and captivating us entirely! 

Far-reaching, full and loud, then dreamy and carefree, then moving and characterful. A siren-like sound that bewitches and casts a musical spell over an entire crowd, we literally hang on her every word. Honey tones, sweet and uplifting. Songs have personal themes which Olivia explains in between and clapping and singing along is encouraged. Folk meets indie meets dream pop vibes. An utterly beguiling set, sparkling and full of life which has gone down very well tonight. Breathtaking vocally and a joy to watch.

(Chris Helme_Credit: Esme Mai)

Headliner: Chris Helme 

As Chris arrives on stage to enthusiastic clapping and riotous cheering, he explains how his set list won’t be used, preferring instead to “see how it goes” and play what feels right. This concept works very well as crowd members happily and eagerly shout out the songs they love and Chris with a laugh plays them upon request. It’s always a very laid-back feel at a Chris Helme gig, much like a large group of friends having a good old sing-along, and it really does feel special and very immersive. 

Between songs Chris chats, telling stories, explaining song themes, involving the crowd and having banter. It’s a trip down memory lane, the nostalgia feels are flowing as Seahorses hits are performed in amongst some of Chris s own materiall, which goes down equally well; each song performed is hungrily devoured by a very eager crowd! Vocal is rich and textured, full of character and when needed emotive and distinctive, instantly recognisable. Performance is vibrant and tight musically, though natural and not forced; stage presence is phenomenal. 

A very entertaining set, equally so between songs, and the few hecklers are instantly and easily cut down to size! Another brilliant, intimate set. Of course, the crowd favourites were always to be ‘Blinded by the sun’ and ‘Love is the law’ but every song tonight stood out, whether new or old. Excellent set and a brilliant event.

Review by Janet Harding