Eddi Reader, Sage Gateshead, Saturday 26th March 2016

Despite a combined total of 120 + years attending gigs, none of #Gadgees had previously seen Eddi Reader live, so rectifying  this glaring omission was long overdue.

@gerry0504
Having produced the perfect pop single some 30 years ago, Ms Reader has enjoyed a distinguished
solo career culminating, for me, as an old folkie, in her iconic album of nearly a decade ago, 'The Songs of Robert Burns' , a signed copy of which I am now the proud owner.
High expectations were fully met in a virtuoso vocal performance and exceeded by Eddi's skill  & wit as a raconteur, regaling us with family stories of a Glasgae gal.

@folkastro

Eddi Reader at #sagegateshead - what remains of the gig is the sound of that amazing voice; such clarity, range and emotion. And of course my CD of Robbie Burns poetry sung so brilliantly; and of which she performed many of the songs at the gig. A real mix of people attending to hear her early pop Perfect song and later folk; rounded off with blues and reflected stories of family song times. Her Irish granny sounds like she was a fundamental influence on more than just her singing. A larger than life Scottish diva; formed in Crimdon Dene.

Otava Yo at The Sage Gateshead Friday 4th March 2016

Firstly, The Gadgees must commend Making Tracks for yet another memorable gig in their World Music series:

"Making Tracks brings brand new music from the far-flung corners of the world to YOU and YOUR local music venue.
From the almost classical to the hot and groovy, from the big and bold to the small and intimate – here at Making Tracks we’ve left no stone unturned in our quest for the world’s most exciting new music.
The best music you have never heard of - coming soon to a venue near YOU.

http://www.makingtrackslive.org.uk/

Having seen the video clip on The Sage website & heard Otava Yo in session on Lopa Kothari's excellent World on 3 programme, the Gadgees expectations were high & Otava Yo delivered in spades.

 From the outset, the audience responded to the vitality, artistry, humour, harmonies & sheer professionalism emanating from the stage. They were rewarded with a splendid & joyful evening's entertainment.

 @Gerry0504 

Vibrant #OtavaYo @sage_gateshead @makingtracks_uk delicious harmonies, verve, wit & huge warmth @alphaspud

As an added bonus, the lead singer had the look of a young Bob Harris about him:

 & a young @WhisperingBob up front? #OtavaYo @sage_gateshead @makingtracks_uk @folkastro @alphaspud splendid gig! Ty pic.twitter.com/wVhbVj

 @alphaspud

@Gerry0504 @sage_gateshead @makingtracks_uk @alphaspud Totally hooked from the start,suberb gig, great musicianship