Bill Wyman’s Rhythm Kings

Hard to believe that this elder statesman of bass playing is 77. Remarkable to think that he left the Stones 20 years ago, and even more incredible to know that he is a prolific photographer, writer, journal-keeper, amateur archaeologist, restauranteur, record collector, composer, a smoker for 55 years and God knows what else. And when you see this most nonchalant of musicians nestling behind the lead singers, barely stroking his bass, not missing a beat, and hardly looking at what he is doing, you really have to take your hat off. Reflecting his on-stage personality, the band have a tangible air of friends doing it purely for fun, enjoying the fact they can indulge in their love of soul, Chicago blues, skiffle, and good old rock’n’roll. Sadly, Georgie Fame wasn’t here tonight; he was taken seriously ill at the beginning of the tour, as Wyman somberly announced at the beginning, but this ultimately didn’t prevent the band (who included veteran guitarist Albert Lee, and singers Maria Muldaur and Beverley Skeete) from giving a no-frills masterclass.

Concert Hall, Brighton Dome, 26 November 2013
Rating:
Jeff Hemmings