Standin’ Man Album Release party
Standin’ Man
Album Release party at
Peggy McCools
Warrington
12/04/2024
Tonight is another special one, a small event, to celebrate the release of the Standin’ Man debut album. “Life imitating art”. It’s been long awaited and eagerly anticipated, personally, from seeing the songs performed at numerous shows, I already know it’s going to be spectacular! Standin Man is the brainchild of Warrington-born Dean Fairhurst (formerly of the Sly Digs) so it’s fitting that tonight’s event is in his home town, in a venue just yards away from the home of the Warrington Wolves rugby league team, and just a stroll from Central Station and town centre.
It’s a first time for me at Peggy McCools, but I’ve heard great things, and have genuinely been eager to check it out. Upon entering, it’s clear to see this IS the perfect setting for tonight’s more intimate, stripped-down, acoustic performance. The feel is industrial, yet quaint; partly a vintage clothing and bric-à-brac store, it’s very eclectic and really has an air of nostalgia and familiarity about it. Standin Man as a band fit right in with their retro rock n roll style, usually sporting hats and always looking every inch the rock stars that they are!
(Standin’ Men_Credit: Matt Jefferson)
Dean Fairhurs t- lead vocal / guitar, Joe Kavaney – guitar/backing vocals, Paul Glover – bass/keys, Pete Fleming – drums
So tonight’s proceedings begin with the album being played in its entirety over the PA system whilst people have a few drinks, mingle and chat and get to meet the band, buy albums and merchandise and take photos with the guys. It’s a very friendly and laid-back feel and all band members are on hand to chat and answer questions. Then it’s time for the live music. I’ve seen Standin Man many times now, full band, so to get to see an acoustic, slower-paced version is always something special, and in such an up-close and unique setting, it really adds to the feels. The sound tonight is brilliant and it’s very atmospheric in semi-lit surroundings, with the spotlight on the band and neon signs and bulb lights all around us.
A hush befalls the entire place once the set begins. It’s incredible, Standin’ Man has a psychedelic sound and it translates well into an acoustic performance, very textured and vibrant. Cajon gives a real depth and obviously drives the sound, whilst bass adds definition; keys and guitar bring character and fullness, added to by Dean’s descriptive and captivating vocal – a gravel tone, then a lightness that suits this rock n roll feel perfectly. As a crowd, we are engulfed by this set, in sounds and feels. Toe-tapping, singing along, all swaying and clapping along. These slowed-down “adapted” versions of the songs from the album are just a joy to behold, and have gone down swimmingly with the crowd.
(Standin’ Men_Credit: Matt Jefferson)
Tonight has been nothing short of fantastic: intimate, warm and friendly, but most of all creative and musically outstanding. One brilliant band with an excellent album in a great, very unusual and cool venue. All round winner! Get yourselves the Standin Man “Life imitating art album” for real psychedelic, melodic and well-written rock n roll.
Review: Janet Harding
Photography: Matt Jefferson
