The Globe, Cardiff
Tue 7 June
It was a sweltering Tuesday evening as the uncharacteristically hot, and I assume lost, Welsh sun beat down on the capital. Couples and friends popping into Wellfield Road’s watering holes, children grabbing an ice cream from Joe’s, joggers running around Roath Park; all that was missing was a soundtrack, and where better to find one in Roath than the Globe, where South African guitarist Dan Patlansky was set to play.
Providing support was Tristan Mackay, a suitable opener weaving together blues and folk songs to create a warm ambiance in the venue. In contrast to Dan Patlansky’s Audioslave-esque guitar and vocals, Mackay had a gentler sound and performed an innovative and charming acoustic set. With the audience settled, Dan Patlansky came on the stage and began the set as he meant to go on. Demonstrating new songs from his new album Introvertigo, and fan favourites from previous albums, Patlansky’s skill on the guitar is quite extraordinary, and as a live act he’s absolutely incredible. While the songs may not be the most interesting in terms of chord sequence or lyrics, they’re more a platform to show off his exceptional prowess as a guitarist.
Often, guitar solos can just go on, and if not done well, they can seem quite self-congratulatory. Luckily for Dan, his were exceptional and had a hypnotic effect on the audience, almost channelling the spirit of Jimi Hendrix. His finale was outstanding, and by pulling on the string access on the back of the guitar and toying with various effects pedals, he created a spacey sound. Two parts Audioslave, one part Red Hot Chili Peppers, and one part Jimi Hendrix, Dan Patlansky provided an absolute treat for guitar fans on this bluesy soiree.
words LUKE OWAIN BOULT, photos LIZ AIKEN