Review of “Liquor & Poker”

At: The Woughton Centre, Milton Keynes

On: Sunday 27/07/08

By: Gaby

Well it’s been a very long time since I last wrote a review on “Liquor & Poker” and since that last time, big changes have been afoot.

Firstly the band has been scaled back to a foursome and the only remaining member of the original incarnation of this great band is guitar virtuoso Adrian Dunn. Secondly much of their traditional 80’s rock classic set list has been completely revised, updated and amended to reflect the brand new sparkling “ready for action” line up.

What has not changed however is their sheer excellence on providing the goods by the bucketful and delivering some real gems of songs with musical talent, confidence, charm and excellence.

For me, this is by far the very best line up this band has had and works together in a tight and relaxed mix whilst offering up music of depth, character and diversity, much of which will be known by all.

“L&P” as the band is affectionately known by devotees has continued to attract a loyal fan base which is becoming ever larger as the band slowly increases its gig list, adds to its ever expanding set list and develops its unique sound and brand across the musical grapevine.

And rightly so, on vocals is Wayne Kensett offering a sweet rocking melodic tone to proceedings whilst actively engaging the audience and using the stage space well as an engaging and dynamic front man for the band. Paul Gunn on bass delivers a steadfast and rock solid performance working together well with Mick Ivory on Drums to deliver the beats and percussion that infuse your senses and make your bones shake, whilst local guitar legend Adrian Dunn drives forth with a heady mix of lead and rhythm guitar that cements and seals their performance together like super glue for anyone who wants to really get stuck in and rock.

Their mix of songs (ever changing) is relatively speaking much as it ever was with the likes of Guns N Roses, Bon Jovi, AC DC, Thunder, Whitesnake etc.. but with a strong new musical influence by the likes of Van Halen and Ozzy covers as well as tracks thrown in by the likes of Billy Idol, Skid Row, Rush and Led Zep to boot.

So all in all it can safely be said that Liquor & Poker are back, fresher, bigger and better than ever before and are ready to serve your rock needs anytime, anyplace and anyhow they can and that has to be a relief for anyone as great bands such as this are very much needed on the local music scene.

Long may it continue and here is a big thumbs up and rock salute to the new refreshed and revitalised Liquor & Poker!

http://www.liquorandpokerrock.co.uk/home.htm