0
0
Richard Clapton, The Star, Gold Coast
11th October 2024
Support – Taxiride
Photographer Michelle Cop
Apparently the oft-repeated mystery of Richard Clapton’s real name is fodder for the media, and it goes something along these lines. When he changed his name in the 1960’s he took, as tribute, the two current music gods of his world: Keith Richards and Eric Clapton.
Whatever the case, Richard has another “name” bestowed on him by Aussie fans and musos. It’s one locked down tight in huge respect to him. It’s associated with his incredibly iconic and masterfully crafted story telling – wrapped around tunes which simply are original. They sound like no one else’s.
As an example, John Farnham, in the November of 2005 released “I Remember When I Was Young” (subtitled “Songs from The Great Australian Songbook”) with his own cool version of “Girls on The Avenue”.
Clapton’s entry onto The Star Casinos’ stage was as relaxed and chilled as the man in those Ray Bans could damn well possibly make it. Look, he’s 75, ok? He’s played to hundreds of thousands over the years. Nothing, it would seem, phases him and that’s the way we liked it.
This guy is hugely revered and yet remains humble, a full house tries to interact with him as if he’s standing alongside at the local. Richard is their mate. He just smiles, soaks it up – and plays, sings to us as if we were at his party.
The band is tight. No gaps. Nobody was working off iPads. What was in play, however, was the synergistic collaboration of blokes having a good time. As for Richard Clapton’s “sound”? It’s perennially intriguing. The Strat and Tele and pedals contributed to just a hint of electric country. The solid drumming, the Bass and Nord keyboard pulled it in another direction to create a mystical feel. Songs like “Capricorn Dancer”, “Down in the Lucky Country”, “Deep Water”, “Liberty Bell” and “I want to be a Survivor” made this night right.
Supporting Richard was the second incarnation of platinum selling album group “Taxiride” with two of the original members. Bands are back, my friends. And this one is brilliant.
Review by Stu Robertson
Richard Clapton- The Star Gold Coast.
11th October 2024
Support- Taxiride
