Scottish Prog Special, Glasgow (Credo etc.)

 

First up were COMEDY OF ERRORS, playing their first gig in 20 years. While the hair may have shortened (or disappeared!) and the attire admirably sober, it was as if they had never been away. The band played with an assuredness and togetherness which totally belied the extended lay off. Former Abel Ganz keyboardist Hew Montgomery helped out the core trio on bass, and Bruce Levick (I think!) on drums.

 

The set list focused on the band's brand new album (Disobey) released the same day. Initial impressions are that this is a truly impressive new release by the band.

 

It was obvious from the outset that the guys were really enjoying the opportunity to play together again. Hopefully, this is the start of a highly fruitful and successful new era for COMEDY OF ERRORS.

 

Next on stage were ABEL GANZ. I had enjoyed the privilege of seeing them in acoustic mode supporting Pendragon, but this was the fist time I had seen them in their full prog format. Frontman “Mick” MacFarlane has settled in to the line up well, being a relative newcomer. Guitarist Davie Mitchell does a passable impression of Mick Box (Uriah Heep), particularly when seated with acoustic guitar. With no product to promote, the set was made up of a good cross section of the band's fine catalogue.

 

Headlining the evening were CREDO. With a remarkable new album “Against reason” just out, the set consisted of a number of tracks from that release, plus a good number from the previous “Rhetoric” album. Lead singer Mark Colton, now thankfully through some major health issues, brought both passion and humour to the evening. The soaring synths and keyboards tsunamis of Mike Varty and the incredible lead guitar dexterity of Tim Birrell combined to create a truly superb atmosphere.

 

Those who have not had to the opportunity to see Credo play live would be well advised to pick up a copy of their “This is what we do” DVD, which includes the last performance of the “Rhetoric” album in its entirety.

 

For such a wonderful night (it lasted for around 4 hours in all), it was a pity the local prog fraternity did not turn out in greater numbers. It was good though to see various members of the bands enjoying the performances when not on stage themselves.