The Cluny, Sunday 8th December 2013
Dave Hause and Northcote round off their European tour in style on a cold December evening in Newcastle.
The Cluny is one of Newcastle's smallest venues; it's a close, intimate affair and full of character. A suitable place for pint size Philly Folk Punk songsmith Dave Hause to bring his European tour to a climax then. He bounds on to stage, full of vim and vigour, and it's immediately visible that he's in the mood to finish the tour on a high.
The set starts with 'Damascus', the opening track from latest album Devour. Hause is an emotional, reflective man and that is clear from Devour, and his performance of even this opening track. He puts everything into it growling out every line. The upbeat 'Melanin' is next. Hause works the crowd well, punctuating his performance with a traditional 'Come on!', as he climbs the speaker stacks and railings next to the stage, trying to get closer to every member of the audience. That's the thing about Hause, he tries to get as close to each member of the audience as he can, even as going as far as working his own merchandise stand at the end of the show, shaking hands and talking to anyone who'll listen. It's nice to see.
The set continues with songs from Devour, including stand out tracks 'The Great Depression' and 'We Could Be Good Kings'. Heartfelt, soulful songs about making the best out what you have. A speech from Hause in between songs nearly brings him to tears as he pours out his feelings on how lucky he is to be doing what he loves. He's in a reflective mood.
But then it's back on with the music. He rips through his catalogue of songs. The set is a mix of Devour and debut album Resolutions. But it's stripped back with only Hause and his accompanying guitarist Mitch on stage. He flips between electric guitar, acoustic guitar and piano, with only ever 2 instruments being used. It's unexpected and gives the songs a new twist, a new sound. Hause rounds off the set with 3 favourites 'Resolutions', 'C'Mon Kid' and 'The Shine', which all induce sing-a-longs from the crowd, drowning out Hause.
The inevitable encore follows, he was only off stage for seconds he's that eager to return! But this time he is joined by his jolly giant support act, the Canadian singer Northcote. He beams as he appears on stage - he is happier than Hause to be on tour in the UK as it's first time here. Northcote is definitely worth a listen - punk edged folk music full of emotion, and delivered with a gruff voice and a smile, a real discovery. They run through the encore, drink in hand, involving the audience at every opportunity. The highlight of the night is an excellent rendition of Northcote's track 'Worry'. It's about being grateful for what you've got - a fitting way to end the night.
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