A solo, economy tour, just one man, an acoustic and an electric guitar- and some songs . I am a long time Parker fans since the 2Marcble Arch ” Ep, that’s fifty years ago. His show at Leeds Uni in 78 is amongst the finest live performances i have ever seen.

For a time he was the hottest rock n roll property around alongside Thin Lizzy, the the New wave/ Punk storm blew and was a Howling Wind he could not weather. There was only toom for one angry young man and Elvis Costello and Joe Jackson became the flavours of the month alongside the Difford/ Tillbrook Squeeze song writing duo. But for a time he was a contender, recording with rock collosuss Springsteen.

The show was split into two halves, the first acoustic the second electric , spanning his entire career. Inevitably some favourites ( Fools Gold, Howlin Wind and Thunder and rain( were omitted) but then many less familiar songs entertained as well.

After 48 years, it was great to see Graham look so well, overflowing with anecdotes which bordered on the “Evening With” chat format and play so confidently and well. Unfortunately without a band the music, and songs, suffered, some appearing to be empty facsimiles of the originals.

The audience reception was respectful, appreciative but generally disappointed. Still love him, but at 76, it’s his recordings frrm now on for me. But thanks for the memories.

Set 1: Acoustic

Watch the Moon Come Down

That’s What They All Say

Ancient Past

Silly Thing

I Live In The Past

Short Memories

Turned Up Too Late

Waiting for the UFO’s

Back in Time

Set 2: Electric

Nothin’s Gonna Pull Us Apart

Lost Track of Time

Slash and Burn

Between You and Me

Lady Doctor

White Honey

Not If It Pleases Me

Encore:

Heat Treatment

Don’t Let It Break You Down

Don’t Ask Me Questions

A review of his classic Leeds Gig

Graham Parker & The Rumour – Leeds University, April 23rd 1978 | Garyswordz