Sunday 20 September 2020

THEATRE REVIEW: Something About Simon - St.Luke's Bombed-Out Church, Liverpool.


'Something About Simon' is a professional theatre show, which is one of several shows being performed at The Liverpool Theatre Fesruval, which has been organised by the producer and artistic director of the event, Bill Elms, at St. Luke’s Bombed Out Church in the very heart of Liverpool. All the necessary precautions were taken to ensure the safety of all the guests, by having the temperatures taken on arrival and social distances measures fully in place in the venue.

Gary Edward Jones portrayed Paul Simon in this one-man biography of the legend, but Jones is also a renowned songwriter, producer and singer in his own right. He began writing and imitating songs those of his idols, Lennon & McCartney, Tim and Neil Finn and of course, Simon & Garfunkel. Now Jone’s original songs cross styles and genres with versatility and accomplishment. His sound is a warm, heart-achingly beautiful acoustic blend with lyrics that are both intelligent and still relevant even today.

'Something About Simon' tells the story of how Paul Simon discovered himself in music and the journey he embarked on to find inspiration for his songs. Jones provided some great stories of his personal life, especially how he found and lost love in his relationships. Additionally, Paul had experienced some struggles in his professional life and was finding ways to deal with them the best way he could.

In a poignant evening of song, story and reminiscences, Liverpool singer-songwriter, Gary Edward Jones honours the genius of Paul Simon in his brilliant one man show. Weaving through the unforgettable melodies with biography and cultural history, Gary takes music fans into Paul Simon’s extraordinary life and straight to heart if his music spanning seven decades. I particularly liked how Jones added little details and trivia to all the songs of Paul Simon before he started singing them.

The show opened with the timeless, classic, 'The Sound Of Silence', which really set the scene and tone of the show. So many of Paul Simon’s signature tunes such as 'Mrs. Robinson', 'Homeward Bound', 'America' and 'The Boxer' were given an outstanding rendition, singing all his songs with empathy, emotion and passion. His vocals were very good and this performance was incredibly memorable. My favourite song of the night was Simon and Garfunkel’s most famous song, 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' and was an absolute privilege and pleasure to listen to. 

The technical team  did a magnificent job with all the lightning and sound aspects of the show. I particularly like how the colours of the lights were altered to suit the mood and tone of the various songs performed. The spotlights and the blackouts at certain intervals were utilised very well and proved effective as these techniques enhanced the show.

I would strongly recommend going to see this show if you’re a fan of Paul Simon or even his genre of music as you won’t be disappointed. This was just one of many diverse shows being performed at The Liverpool Theatre Festival.

Reviewer - Mark Cooper
on - 19/9/20

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