Independent Review by John Gregory

Triumphant return to the Gaiety

Screen Shot 2013-12-13 at 21.58.25Davy Knowles made a triumphant return to the Gaiety Theatre in Douglas when he performed new songs and old favourites to a capacity crowd.

The guitarist, who is from Port St Mary but now lives in Chicago, performed at the venue for the first time in four years on Monday and for part of his set he appeared with special guest Bernie Marsden – an ex songwriter and guitar player with rock band Whitesnake.

Davy was thrilled to share the stage with one of his idols who has become one of his friends.

The set even included a couple of Whitesnake hits, Ain’t No Love In The Heart of the City and Here I Go Again.

The night was an emotional homecoming for Davy – mirrored in the stage set which featured the word ‘home’ in lights.

Screen Shot 2013-12-13 at 21.48.37Backed by a fantastic band – including Isle of Man based backing vocalists Christine Collister and Christy DeHaven – Davy gave a master class in blues rock guitar.

New material was played throughout the gig as well as some of his most popular songs including Come Home, Tear Down The Walls and Roll Away.

Fiddle player Katie Lawrence – well-known in the Island’s music scene – accompanied Davy on a couple of songs too.

Screen Shot 2013-12-13 at 22.03.36Davy is an ambassador for the Isle of Man’s Island of Culture campaign next year and while he may live in America his love of the Island is as strong as ever.

Nick Barlow and the Bad Noise warmed up the crowd tremendously with a fantastic performance and the whole night was a major showcase for Manx-made talent. Credit must also go to Lenny Conroy of Triskel Promotions – a long time supporter and friend of Davy – for organising a hugely memorable night.Screen Shot 2013-12-13 at 22.05.17

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