James Oliver Band
8th October 2025 – Vonnie’s Blues Club, Charlton Kings
I’ll be honest, the evening did not get off to a great start. The limited sat-nav ensured locating the venue was elusive. The one-way system and autumnal darkness conspired to deny the opportunity to pull over and inquire. A few impatient locals familiar with the road lay-out, were less than charitable at the junctions.
However, once inside Vonnie’s Blues Club, above the Charlton Kings Club, the warm, mood-altering ambience took over as I cradled my butty bach. The impatient car-horns replaced with the mellow and laidback country- tinged folk of The Stuart Earl Duo. Old Man by the Sea was cushioned with an inspirational legend – true story. Rainy Night in Georgia was as mellifluous as any version, aided by Stuart Earl’s smooth voice. The excellent cover of Human by the Killers – albeit a slower version – proved they were not afraid to step out of line and create their own version. Lyndon Webb displayed his wizardry on his acoustic and one or two solos were greeted with spontaneous and charitable applause. Cwtch.
James Oliver of the Titular James Oliver Band has been rehearsing his spontaneity for a number of years. The audience knew what to expect from the front man and his band – that is another reason why Vonnie’s was full. Any set by the JOB is full on!
The band tore into Tear it Up after the customary highly professional introduction. As a result, the mood-altering ambience of Vonnie’s was elevated to one of frantic urgency. Not that you can deny their musicality. This is a one-way street we were happy to pursue…
Next to James Oliver, Norman Watt Roy’s bass playing is a towering presence. Mark Kemlo is a relaxed and composed drummer and looks hugely content behind his minimalist kit – as reliable as unheralded temporary traffic lights appearing on a Monday morning. Oliver’s facial contortions match his string bending and neck bending antics on stage. Swapping between lead and rhythm, made to look as effortless as following a modern sat-nav. At times it is difficult to see who is driving who on, on stage. Tidy.
Mr. Oliver’s ordinance survey map of musical influences must be well-thumbed and creased beyond-recognition. The evening’s set, sign-posted Freddie King covers, a Psychobilly-pleasing version of Wipe-out, and a trio of defiant Dr. Feelgood classics. Although, the band were happy to change gear, slow down and prove their versatility…
The genteel slide guitar of Sky is Crying by Elmore James would surely have a certain Blues Club evaluate, pick up the phone and reverse out of that particular cul-de-sac?
The jokey asides, jocular observations and witty retorts are part of the night out. James Oliver has a particular brand of politically-incorrect wokery. No one is spared…Indian band members, the Forest of Dean, the Chinese and even his own tribe. The intro to “Sheep walk”, well, I will leave it there. There is a golden adage in show business, that you don’t abuse you audience but I don’t think Master Oliver heard those directions.
The evening’s one hour and forty minute set was peppered with the band’s own tracks and Missing link was one rampant instrumental much appreciated. The show closing instrumental version of Misirlou by Dick Dale fired up the adrenaline like the car behind triggering their car horn for no good reason.
One other 18 carat rule in show business is the show must go on! Accordingly, special mention to James Oliver for his personal performance on the night, whilst obviously suffering and struggling.
Respect also to Vonnie’s Blues Club for their monumental charitable works – donating thousands for worthwhile causes. The impromptu auction at the end of the night, to sell off Norman’s merchandise, meant the night ended on a lofty charitable high. And I, for one, couldn’t have signposted this outcome at the start of the night. You can’t help but feel Yvonne would have approved!
By: The Swilgate Scuttler
PS For young Dan, on the cusp of greatness…