Wilko Johnson LIVE at KOKO, Camden 13.10.13

‘If I ain’t dead by the end of the year, it’s gonna start getting embarrassing”

Despite being given six months to live back in January, Wilko Johnson seemed very much alive on stage at Koko on Sunday, as he propelled through phenomenal hit upon phenomenal hit. However, this didn’t take away from the emotional impact and sheer magnitude of seeing this legend bid farewell with such grace and style. Certainly nothing to be embarrassed about.

Opening for Wilko are Carlisle lads, The 45s. Donning retro, Beatles haircuts, ankle chasing slacks, bundles of youthful energy and heaps of talent, these four teenagers succeed in getting the night off to a swinging start. At just sixteen years of age, this rhythm and blues quartet deliver raucous rock n roll with an endearing charisma and vigour, and – despite their youth – maintain a cool aura and visible bond as a band that portrays a sense of wisdom beyond their years. Treating us to a variety of classic covers from the likes of Muddy Waters amongst others, as well as an array of their own material – such as ‘Little Black Shorts’ and ‘Number 34’ – The 45s create a ‘60s infused buzz of real, honest music that is refreshing to come across in this synth-obsessed era. Blasting out explosive tunes filled with immaculately executed guitar riffs, skillful bluesy harmonica and an impressive rhythm section (the bassist even shot at the crowd with his instrument in homage to his hero…), these charming gents, with their crowd-pleasing antics and pure musicality, prove to be the perfect start to a perfect night. I can certainly see why they are Wilko Johnson’s favourite band of the moment…

Next up, Eight Rounds Rapid. A band I’ve been raving about for a couple of months now, since first hearing their double A-side ‘Writeabout/Steve’. And they did not disappoint. Being the second time that they have supported Wilko Johnson at Koko this year, they are clearly pros. Despite contrasting with the opening act – possessing a sincerely cool attitude, stern pouts and clenched fists in place of fresh-faced, youthful energy – one thing the two bands do have in common is pure, awe-inspiring talent and a clear dedication to real music. Oozing this charisma, Eight Rounds Rapid maintain a unique presence on stage that lures you in and doesn’t let go, exuding an engrossing, pounding energy that is impossible to ignore. With a vigorous, punk-infused buzz, pummelling drums and rapid, impassioned vocals, this Southend band deliver fast-paced, anthemic storms of sound with climatic, groovy riffs and pumping bass lines. As Simon Johnson charismatically and consistently struts from one side of the stage to the other in a style reminiscent of his dad’s (Wilko’s) classic stage antics, one addictively angsty, thumping tune upon thumping tune is blasted out with style and sophistication. As expected, therefore, a truly exciting and impressive set is delivered that leaves me wanting more. Despite the band themselves asserting that “Britain’s got talent, but most of us haven’t”, I can safely say that Eight Rounds Rapid have actually got a whole lot of talent, and I can’t wait to hear what else they have to offer.

Wilko Johnson takes to the stage, true to form, wearing his trademark smile, black shirt, and red and black telecaster. I feel the butterflies well up inside me, an indescribable mix of excitement and apprehension build and an unidentifiable moist form around my eyes…

I last saw Wilko a couple of years ago at the humble Electric Palace in Bridport, before any knowledge of the news that has prompted his farewell tour was known. He was amazing then, and he is amazing now. His unique energy, charisma and humour are all still intact, his guitar played with as much skill as ever, the trusty Norman Watt-Roy by his side as always. The only difference is the increased number of people in the crowd, in comparison to the few country folk who managed to fit into the old cinema where I’d been lucky enough to see him last.

The set opens with the classic ‘All Through The City’, inspiring mass singing along and heartfelt cheers. This is followed by a series of classic tunes executed with Wilko’s unique intensity, character and skill to an adoring crowd, all here to celebrate this man. From his cheeky caressing of his guitar in ‘Roxette’ to his characteristic shooting of the crowd, and the contrast between his fear-inducing stare (that Game Of Thrones fans will be familiar with…) and his endearing cheek-to-cheek grin, Wilko Johnson puts on an impressive show in which he plays every character, that it is impossible not to enjoy.

Accompanied by the ever-faithful and just as compellingly charming, engaging and outright brilliant, Norman Watt-Roy on bass and the exceptionally talented Dylan Howe on drums, Johnson and co. deliver an impeccable set of classic blues rock numbers – an exciting cacophony of sound that make it easy to forget the reason for this ‘farewell tour’. As Wilko snake-steps across the stage to the infamous ‘She Does It Right’, the crowd are able to focus on this man’s utter brilliance and just the sheer enjoyment that every single one of us are experiencing. One of the greatest things about seeing Wilko Johnson live is his ability to make every individual in his presence feel completely connected to what’s going on; you can almost imagine he’s playing to you personally, such is the extent that he involves the crowd, captures your attention and captivates you entirely. With an encore of ‘Bye Bye Johnny’, as Johnson waves bye-bye to the crowd, admittedly I find that moistness around my eyes re-appearing (and I don’t think I was alone…)… But this sensation is accompanied by a feeling of pure joy at having been lucky enough to be able to experience live one of the greatest musicians the world has ever known, not once but twice. And I’m pretty sure this celebratory vibe was Wilko’s intention for these monumental concerts.

So, let’s celebrate him. Wilko Johnson is not only a magnificent blues guitarist, a legendary rock star, an inspirational figure for all musicians, an actor in one of the most successful TV shows of the last two years… But an all round performer, a real gent who is capable of putting on a truly unforgettable and inspiring show time and time again (whatever else he may be going through…), and who’s just clearly a really nice guy. And no, Wilko, don’t be embarrassed you’re alive, be elated, like I am – you’re a true English treasure who I would like to thank for a fantastic night. And I’m certainly not ready to say ‘farewell’ just yet…