Philip Sayce - Liverpool O2 Academy 2 - 15th November 2010
Philip Sayce has been playing in bands since he was fifteen years old. Honing his craft on Toronto club scene, he rapidly gained notoriety for his blues and rock influenced virtuosity. Due to sheer hard work and touring, his fan base has grown along with his reputation. He has developed into a great musician and performer, so I couldn't believe that there was a relatively small crowd at the Liverpool Academy to see him.
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The band erupted on stage with their opener 'One Foot In The Grave'; Sayce'e energy lifting the sparse crowd. He powered his way along with some very impressive riffs and tricks galore. The lead break was fast, slick and technically brilliant. Finishing off with a guitar crescendo, he even managed to fit in playing with his teeth. The audience was dumbstruck at the sheer power and exuberance they had just witnessed and more jaws dropped as he went straight into 'Love Is A Powerful Thing', complete with its Hendrix sounding chords and the intermittent Robin Trower style licks delivered with even more power and energy. Here is a musician who loves playing and his enthusiasm on stage hasn't been matched by any guitarist I've seen for some time.
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The set went on, playing songs from his latest album 'Innerevolution', with some older songs thrown in. His energy didn't relent, nor did his enthusiasm; he put everything he had into every song, riff and lead break. Musicality, technical ability and sheer enthusiasm were all there. When he spoke, he was sincere; with a quiet, unassuming attitude, the crowd could not do anything else but to warm to him.
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He introduced the final song of the night as the Canadian National Anthem; it was in fact Neil Young's 'Cinnamon Girl'; a great ending to a fantastic evening.
To view all photos taken during this set click here. There are 8 available.