BIRDS OF CHICAGO SUPPORTED BY THE REMEDY CLUB IN WHELAN'S, DUBLIN

It’s the final chorus from the final song performed by Birds of Chicago and as had been the case on their last visit to Ireland barely twelve weeks ago, with the audience joining in, the words echo around the room. It follows what has been an extraordinary evening’s entertainment which kicked off two and a half hours previously with the support slot by The Remedy Club. 

Regardless of their talents, performers can only do so much to create the perfect show. The additional ingredient to add that spark to a gig, is an engaging and appreciative audience and tonight certainly hit a high spot both on and off stage. A large crowd was already in attendance when The Remedy Club opened their slot with I Miss You, the opening track from their super album Legends, Lovers & Lost Causes. Long time favourites of Lonesome Highway, the husband and wife duo Aileen Mythen and KJ McEvoy’s performances over the past twelve months have gone from strength to strength and their self-assurance this evening was evident, no doubt buoyed by the positive reaction of the audience from the outset. After four songs from their forty minute set a call came from the back of the room of ‘who are you?’ Their set was going down so well that they neglected to introduce themselves from stage!  Performing as a duo, they have the ability to create a ‘band’ effect, with Mc Evoys splendid guitar playing complimented Mythen’s rhythmic percussion. However, their tour de force are their harmonies, Mythen’s ability to vary her vocal range from honey sweet to seductive blues competing with Mc Evoy’s baritone crooning. 

Concentrating on material from the album they play When Tom Waits Up (the ‘legends’ in the album title inspired by Tom Waits we’re told), a rocking Big Ol’ Fancy, the more mellow Last Song. They encore with a killer delivery of the bluesy Image On My Retina (a song recorded in their previous life as B & the Honeyboy), highlighting this accomplished duo’s ability to rock out with belting vocals and a ripping guitar solo. I can hardly  recall the last occasion I witnessed a support act get as rapturous a reception at Whelan’s, further evidence that all the Remedy Club require is exposure, to swiftly move on to a much higher level in the music industry. Equally impressive is the sight of Birds of Chicago’s Allison Russell dancing in the corner to their set, accompanied by her husband J.T.Nero, a lovely touch. 

The evening could only be described as a triumph. 

Review and photography by Declan Culliton