Nepal Fundraiser, Multiple venues, Inverness, 21/6/2015. A short review.
When the earthquake struck in Nepal on 25th April the world reacted. Governments and agencies offered whatever help was needed and with this the world came to their help. But help comes in all shapes and sizes and when Kris Douglas gave a rallying call the local musicians of Inverness they all stepped up to play their part. With this groundswell of support a fundraising event was set up across three local venues: Mad Hatters, The Market Bar and The Eagle.
Mad Hatters accommodated the bands, The Market Bar welcomed the acoustic acts and The Eagle was the domain of the DJs. I only took in the early part of the night at Mad Hatters and the Market Bar. Well it was a school night…
First up were Rabbit Punch. I once caught one of their early gigs when they showed promise but were equally a little lost in their surroundings. Tonight was oh so different with their hard edges and a very focused and theatrical frontman Scott MacBain. This was menace and hard rock by the bucket full. A great start, and talking of buckets the one at the entrance to the venue was already filling up with donations.
A quick dash to the Market Bar and a I caught a bit of Ashley and Ben. Very much stalwarts of the bar it was very fitting that they took a turn. With two guitars and Ashley’s voice which could fill a venue ten times the size the crowd sat up and took notice. I just wish I caught a little more.
Next up over in Mad Hatters were the always impressive Woodentooth. Tonight was no exception. This is a big sound which they call rock ‘n’ roll. Let’s put the emphasis on the rock as that’s where it’s at. They’ve landed a well deserved slot at Belladrum this year so if you missed out tonight you could catch them there.
Shortly after Silver Coast took to the stage. Having planned an early night I took in their first couple of songs. They are very single minded in what they are doing and it comes across in their focussed sets. I then headed over to the Market Bar to catch a little of Iain McLaughlin charming the crowd. Iain’s acoustic set works well in this tight environment. Atmospheric and personal.
Although my night ended just after ten, and there were a good few acts to follow, it was good not just to see local bands out but to see people supporting, not just them, but the Nepal appeal. It would only be right at this point to congratulate Kris Douglas (Dr Wook) for being the catalyst for this fine evening of fundraising support. Without the likes of him such events would never happen.
The total sum raised which I quote from Dr Wook’s Facebook page was ‘… a grand total of £1,049.02p!!!!!!!! There was also a 1/2 a Swiss Franc, 10 Danish Kroner and a Woodentooth Badge:)’
That is great in anyone’s money. Money that will be sent direct to a hospital in Nepal.
