L'ATITUDE Wine Bar on Union Quay has one of Cork's best small music spaces. The venue, formerly known as
The Lobby is imortalised by John Spillane in his song '
Magic Nights in the Lobby Bar' . One of the musicians name checked in that song, Cork singer songwriter
Ger Wolfe, has built up a discerning following for his poetic reflective lyrics set in beguiling folk infused melodies. His midweek set at the upstairs venue opened with the title track of the forthcoming album
New October Daughter and included numbers from his back catalogue of half a dozen albums.
These are not foot stompin' , hard hitting ballads and Wolfe's vocal style is pure and unadorned, best suited to the thoughtful lyrics on themes of ordinary everyday life in songs like,
The Lark of Mayfield ,
Fallen Branches She Scattered Crumbs and
Washing the Yard ( not to be confused with the Brenadan Shine number even in this venue !). The elements are often lively dance rhythms-a jig, a bit of reggae and calypso creep in here and there, driven by the other strong musicians in the line up. Shane Scanlon's lead guitar and Martin Leahy on drums ( and bass guitar and yes- occasionally both at the same time !) added to the palette of words and music. Both will feature on the new album.
The trio of large period windows overlooking the Lee and City Hall combined with subdued lighting made this a very attractive evening venue. The house menu and extensive wine list was available. There are not to many gigs where you can be served a nice glass of Shiraz and a cheese plate to add to your enjoyment of the musical fare. A most satisfying evening with food for body and soul!
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A visual element was added by the portraits by artist Cathy Twomey which adorned the walls of the venue http://www.newirishart.com/CatherineTwomey/index.htm.
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