The Enid

 THE ENID Musician Pub 19th October 2023

And now for something completely different... having seen many bands and artists across many genres tonight at The Musician Pub was something very different... The Enid.

I recall the band from close on half a century ago, but never got to see them live, and I confess didnt really know their music very well though i had heard a fair bit back then... so it was a real treat to catch up with the current version of this legendary band tonight.

i have no idea how you would categorise these guys... maybe orchestral prog jazz rock?... Just file them as a creative, innovative and damn fine band!

On walking into the room you couldn't help noticing the most packed stage i have seen at the Musician, including a monster drum kit!

The first half started with in very orchestral vein, with layer upon layer of guitar and keyboards along with bass and drums. The music was very orchestral in feel, melodic and rather beautiful...

After the break the tempos and intensity grew and the twin guitars of Jason Ducker and Alfredo Randazzo andd the bass of Tim Harries were taking on a harder edge... and were matched by the increasing intensity of the keyboards of Robert Godfrey. However through it all Karl Thompson on drums drove the music and proved absolutely rivetting.

The band moved into some more familiar material (at least to those who knew the band well from the earlier days) and it swung in mood and style between almost orchestral beauty and the intensity of rock... by the time the band were reaching the climax of the final number it was getting close to rock'n'roll as Karl was launching an attack on the massive drum on his right and the big gong while the whole band rocked hard... i have to say the the performance of Karl on the drums was worth the admission on its own... rivetting and magnificent...

To conclude the show, Robert made his way to centre front of stage and while the band rocked he sang a curious re-write of the old Troggs classic... Wild Thing. As the song ended there was a wave, a thank you for coming and Robert was gone, followed by the band ending a memorable gig.

keep music live... keep music real... support your local venue