Mama in concert at the Warrington Pyramid and Parr Hall Saturday 2nd August 2014. Review and photographs by Jill Walker.

I’ve heard so many good things about Mama although never had the opportunity to see them until now. The Pyramid is a small intimate venue adjacent to the Parr Hall , also close to home so one not to miss!

A look at the band’s web site gives a teasing list of songs they may perform , and what a list it is! This was going to be a feast for our ears and a “Genesis fix” to sate the palate of any Genesis fan.

From the opening notes of Behind The Lines it was obvious what a truly talented bunch of musicians we were listening to. The sound quality was superb and the authentic interpretation was spot on. John Comish on keyboards captured the essence of Tony Banks perfectly with the tone and style of his playing, a joy to listen to. Brother Mark Comish on lead guitar, Dave Perry on bass, James Cooper on drums and John Wilkinson lead vocals complete the line up. They are all true fans of Genesis which with their combined talent means that the music we love is in very capable hands, and is being kept alive for old and hopefully new fans.

Many pieces they played I hadn’t heard live for many years. A particular favourite of mine, Domino was incredible! Tight, powerful playing , a strong expressive vocal. All this on a small stage without the huge light and film show of a stadium performance! It was really amazing!

There were lots of moments where you could just shut your eyes and be transported back, it was that good. Mark Comish captures the Steve Hackett style and feeling so well. Even treating us to Spectral Mornings (not all of us felt the need to go to the bar at this point, Mark), it was just beautiful. John W’s voice has an uncanny resemblance to Phil Collins and his rendition of Fading Lights, his own personal favourite, brought tears to my eyes! So moving. Not a one trick pony by any means. , he also sang an outstanding Solsbury Hill! For a young drummer like James to be so in touch with how this music should be played is heartwarming. He’s a powerhouse and showed off his mastery to perfection, particularly on In The Air Tonight. John C has honed his keyboard style and sound to emulate the great Mr Banks. He gave us a spine tingling moments throughout the night. Pinning all of this together, bassman Dave Perry, a very expressive, tight player. Dave will be leaving the band in September so best wishes to him for future projects.

The songs kept coming - Carpet Crawlers, No Son Of Mine, Dodo , In The Cage plus medley. Both the expected and the unexpected. A haunting Many Too Many , an exiting and exhilarating Los Endos. Mama of course,, Abacab and Turn It On Again. From the opening Duke trio - Behind The Lines, Duchess and Guide Vocal - wow! To the finale of Tonight, Tonight, Tonight it was thrilling and very impressive. An encore of I Know What I Like rounded off the night perfectly. A full two and a half hours of nostalgia and a “Genesis fix” we’re unlikely to see again unless we keep on supporting great tribute bands like Mama. If they are playing in your area, please go along, you will NOT be disappointed.

Thanks for the review Jill. Sounds like We missed a great night out!