Thursday 02/02/06 Jose Gonzalez, El Perro Del Mar @ Academy 2, Manchester

Originally scheduled to play in the more intimate Academy 3, but due the unprecedented success of the Swedish maestro’s debut album ‘Veneer’, and known to most as “the man who does that song on that TV advert”, Jose Gonzalez was promoted to the more spacious Academy 2, to which tickets sold out in an instant. So should we believe the hype, or is this just another disposable export? 

First time to kick back to the ambience of fellow Swede’s El Perro Del Mar, eclectic acoustics and a cross between Madonna’s vocals and Kate Bushes beautiful madness.  Stand-out track ‘Party’ is certainly one to look out for.

Now buzzing with anticipation to witness what the man behind the vocals of such poignant delicacy, guitar melodies of intricate beauty, really looks like in the flesh.  And to a rapturous applause on steps Jose Gonzalez - a tall, quiet, and timid man.  Barely looking up at the crowd, immediately takes his seat, and acquaints himself once again with his beloved classical guitar.  With such excitement surrounding the unlikely hero, the crowd “shhh” each other impatiently as Jose replies with eerie opener ‘Deadweight On Velveteen’.  However four songs in and something doesn’t feel right, as contrasting heckles from the crowd for people to “shut the fuck up” or “turn it up Jose!” spoil the melancholy aura.  Amidst the uneasiness, a rather rushed rendition of ‘Heartbeats’ is hammered out, and mass anti-climax sets in to peoples expectations.

But alas!  Like a great football match, this is to be a gig of two halves, and fuck me did Jose redeem himself, as out steps two sombre percussionists armed with bongos and shakers.  The more up-tempo rhythms of ‘Remain’ and the emotively capturing ‘Lovestain’ fuel the crowds’ souls, and finally settle their differences.  The best however is left till last as two mind-blowing covers are played with such uniqueness and emotive force, the venue just watches in ore.  An insanely risky cover of Kylies ‘Put Your Hand On Your Heart’ is amazing, and is quickly followed by Massive Attack's ‘Teardrop’, which is so uplifting you would buy a ticket just for these two masterpieces. 

With one final musical orgasm left, the encore provides Jose’s best song to date ‘Crosses’, and the evening is mysteriously concluded with a “very new song with no name”.  Strongly reminiscent of John Martyn’s Solid Air album, it leaves us wondering what to expect next.  Confusing, yet flawless – interested?