Live

Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentleman : Ronnie Scott’s 10/07/23

It’s always good to catch Jon Cleary and his band, The Absolute Monster Gentlemen at Ronnie Scotts. He is without doubt a popular regular at the club and on tonight’s performance, it’s easy to see why.

Announcing ‘we are going to play some New Orleans Funk ‘ he was true to his word as he kicked off with the Sly Stone influenced ‘We Are Going To Cha Cha All Night Long’’ from his seminal album "Pin Your Spin" (2004) and then viola boom ! The main man launched into a gospel shout work out to dust off any lingering cobwebs after a long flight. Full of energy and with all band members singing Cleary meant business and his piano solo was to all intense and purposes, bat s@@t crazy and just as fruity ! An interesting line up what with Cleary on piano coupled with electric piano and Nigel Hall adding further sizzling Hammond stylings with panache.The band also featured Cornell Williams on bass, AJ Hall on drums and Pedro Segundo on percussion. Each member brings their own unique style and musicality, contributing to the band's dynamic and tight-knit sound. It was a varied repertoire, harking back to the skilful balladry of ‘Pick Up The Pieces’ from his very first album through to the groovy soul pocket of ‘Two For The Juke Box’ through to the new rootsier material from his forthcoming album with a track called ‘Zulu Coconut’.

Brave covers too, in the shape of Betty Wright’s ‘ Clean Up Woman’ were a winner too. In all my years I’ve never heard a guy attempt it let alone sing it.

Good to see him play guitar also on the funky "Got To Be More Careful" and the second line blessedness of ‘Get Ready For The Boneyard’ where he enthralled us with a blistering and gutsy solo on his cute,mini electric guitar. Great to hear The Meters get props too in the shape of the super funky ‘Just Kissed My Baby’ where Cleary excels on clavinet and taking it harmonically elsewhere. Suffice to say, Mardi Gras came early in Soho but with hurricane force, such is the emotional heft this guy musters. He felt like funkin ir up and boy did he..
Words Emrys Baird