Dave Mann - Fly by Night - 2nd April 2011

I was delighted when I found out Dave Mann was support act for Eric Bibb at the Fly by Night Musicians Club in Fremantle. I have been lucky enough to see Dave a few times, usually playing in his Dave Mann Collective outfit.

The full house was quiet and attentive while Dave entertained us with his blues/roots tunes. I love Dave’s guitar work, the sound was full bodied and clean and I found myself watching intently, and wondering, “How does he do that?” One of the things I have always enjoyed about Dave Mann: he doesn’t remind me of anyone else!

After a couple of songs, Dave was joined on stage by his wife. While Dave tuned, his wife introduced the tribute song he wrote for Alan and Pam Skuse. Alan and Pam found their lives changed, forever, when their 12 month volunteer assignment, at Mission Mexico, turned into a lifelong commitment and sacrifice to help and support displaced children in Mexico. I have thought about this story many times since Saturday. I have told others about it too. Thanks, Dave, for another great song and for giving us something to think about. It is a reminder of the wonderful achievements of the worlds many volunteers, and the sacrifices they have to make. Alan and Pam’s story has been captured in a movie titled Somewhere Near Tapachula; I must go and see this film!

When I left the venue, Dave was standing by the stage, talking to fans; I’m sorry I didn’t stop and say hello. If I lived in Margaret River, there is no doubt I’d be knocking on Dave’s door to ask, “Any chance of a few strumming lessons?”

Eric Bibb - Fly by Night - 2nd April 2011

When Eric Bibb walked on stage, at the Fly by Night Musicians Club in Fremantle, wearing his Panama hat and a wide smile, I knew we were in for a treat. I forgave the guy, sitting in front of me, for being born with a big head, and as soon as the first note was played, I was drawn into the land of Eric, hanging onto every note he played; man, can that dude play finger style, blues guitar.

By the third song, Eric was joined on stage by Swedish guitarist, Staffan Astner. The synergy between Bibb and Astner was pure entertainment and there was no doubt that the boys on stage were enjoying themselves. Anster providing some wonderful, non intrusive, sounds and fills on his electric guitar; much to the delight of the audience.

The songs just kept on coming, from upbeat and bluesy to slow and sincere. I found myself smiling all the while I was watching Eric strut his stuff; those funky little moves really did it for me! I can’t think of any other entertainer with an easier delivery and a more engaging stage personality. My favourite song, on the night, was the last song Eric sang before the encore. It was a new song to me, and I don’t remember the name, but Eric wrote it for his fiancé. I could have listened to that song all night long.

During the encore, when fans were suggesting the next song to sing, I nearly called out “She’s Still With Me,” but I remained silent and listened some more. Eric Bibb is so incredibly personable, friendly and sincere I couldn’t help musing, that if I met him in the street and said “G’day, mate, love your music,” Eric would probably say, “Great to meet you, Jane. Why don’t, you send me a friend request on face book!”