James McMurtry, Glasgow review: 'spare storytelling and droll observations'
Texan troubadour James McMurtry kicked off the 20th edition of the Glasgow Americana Festival in fine style, writes Fiona Shepherd
James McMurtry, St Luke's, Glasgow ★★★★
The quiet triumph that is the Glasgow Americana Festival kicked off its 20th edition with a rare sighting of cult Texan troubadour James McMurtry, son of Lonesome Dove author Larry McMurtry. Ably steered over five days by promoter Kevin Morris, who books the country and folk artists others can’t, won’t or don’t into an array of Glasgow’s more bijou venues, this boutique event has cultivated a loyal, inquiring audience in its time, as well as a respectful listening environment. There were precious few phones in view, although one pesky ringtone chimed along to BettySoo’s support set.
The professed sad songs of this Austin singer/songwriter didn't quite hit where it hurt before she was joined by a “surprise mystery guest” (McMurtry) to round off her set with a thoughtful version of Woody Guthrie’s Deportees. She returned the favour for the lion’s share of his headline set, providing leavening accompaniment on accordion, guitar and harmony vocals.
But first, some spare storytelling, droll observations on the art of songwriting, mellifluous ringing guitar and borrowed quotes from Churchill (“tomorrow morning I’ll be sober, you’ll be just as ugly still”) on the bluesy Red Dress. McMurtry may sound like a troubadour traditionalist but his repertoire takes in songs inspired by the events of 9/11 (Annie) and novelist Max Crawford (Levelland).
The audience of acolytes ate up a “medley of our greatest hit”; the shaggy dog story Choctaw Bingo (one of Stephen King’s Desert Island Discs) was a victory for rhythm over melody. The Johnny Cash-like Saint Mary of the Woods was a more absorbing country folk yarn, McMurtry’s guitar as eloquent as the words. Closing country ballad Gulf Road, with McMurtry and BettySoo trading lead vocals, was another highlight, while his voice and her accordion sounded even better on the unamplified encore, Blackberry Winter.
The Glasgow Americana Festival, various venues, Glasgow, until 4 October, see www.glasgowamericana.co.uk
The Scotsman’s arts newsletter is now sent twice a week - subscribe today
Enjoying the Arts & Culture journalism on scotsman.com? Make it easier to find by selecting us as a preferred Google source
Want the latest Scottish headlines sent directly to your phone? Sign up to our new WhatsApp channel here
Comments
Want to join the conversation? Please or to comment on this article.