Wetton/Downes in Glasgow

I caught the Wetton/Downes gig at Glasgow's Renfrew Ferry last night.

It wasn't a very big crowd, but they were enthusiastic and I got the impression that the band were pretty blown away by the reception they got. It was the last date of a short tour, or as Wetton put it, a tourette (to which the guy to my left said "Well, f**k me").

The band played for about 1hr 45min, and the material consisted of stuff from their new album "Icon" and older Asia stuff, including a fair selection from the first album, including Heat Of The Moment, Sole Survivor, and Cutting It Fine. I was a bit disappointed that they didn't include my favorite track from the album "Wildest Dreams".

After the gig, the guys came out and mingled with the crowd. This is something that happens all the time at The Ferry, especially with older bands/musicians. I think we've all reached an age where they appreciate our support, and they know that people are mature enough not to swamp them. I had a short chat with Downes, telling him that it was the first time I'd seen him in concert since 1980 "Not the Yes tour.." he said. "The very one" said I. He rolled his eyes, smiled and said "Well, thanks for coming back, even though it took you a while".

We also got a chance of a quick chat with Wetton, who was very personable and friendly. My buddy is a big UK fan (as am I), and asked him a question about those days. He said he really enjoyed the music and playing with Bruford and Holdsworth, but he was - how shall I put it - less than complimentary about Eddie Jobson.

All in all, a great evening.