By Scott Hays
Sunderland’s own Lucas Renney formerly of The Golden Virgins, a band once tipped for big things and then seemingly fading into the ether, proved tonight that his once critical acclaim was more than just fleeting hype. His performance tonight was accompanied by a ramshackle gathering of musician friends was a potent reminder of the raw, evocative power that made the 2004 debut, “Songs of Praise,” such a compelling and important listen
From the moment Lucas Renney’s distinctive, world-weary vocals cut through the venue, it was clear this wasn’t an attempt to rehash past glories. There was a palpable energy and renewed conviction in the delivery. Renney’s voice, often described as a compelling blend of Elvis Costello and Andy Cairns, felt even more honed and emotionally charged in a live setting. He effortlessly navigated the lyrical landscape, shifting from bitter introspection to soaring, almost anthemic declarations.
Their sound, a compelling fusion of country-tinged rock’n’roll and indie grit, translated brilliantly live. Tracks like “Shadows of Your Love” resonated with a potent blend of melancholy and defiance, while the more upbeat numbers like “The Thought Of Her” showcased their knack for crafting infectious, yet still subtly complex, melodies.
What truly shone through in the performance was the enduring quality of the art of songwriting. Songwriting in it’s most pure and potent form. The songs may have been written over 20 years ago but they are as meaningful now as they were when I was a young man aged 19 sat on the floor in the royalty put at the legendary club Boyeater nights ran and organised by the late James Jam watching Lucas play early versions of these songs in the band Brilliantine the pre cursor to The Gold Virgins.
The Golden Virgins may have taken a hiatus, but the return to the stage if Lucas Renney feels less like a return for nostalgia’s sake and more like a vibrant reassertion of Lucas’s artistic vision. Delivering a performance that was both familiar and fresh reminding you of this man’s legacy to local music. Welcome back Lucas.
