The Sheffield Scenester

Think of Francis Rossi OBE, and you think of the bloke in Status Quo who plays a green Telecaster, usually in front of a crowd of thousands. Safe to say that you wouldn't think of him performing solo material for just a couple of hundred people in a ballroom, but that's what we witnessed on Monday night. Following the recent release of his second solo album 'One Step at a Time', Mr Rossi decided to take the material on the road and showcase it at a few intimate venues. For Francis and his fans alike, it was more a case of stepping into the unknown. The album, largely made up of songs Francis had written over the years which he thought didn't quite fit the Quo mould, is a mix of thoughtful ballads and cheerful melodies. Quick three minute sing-a-longs make it a short album, but the quality is there. The songs seem kind of addictive and there's a feel-good vibe about them. This vibe was present in the City Hall ballroom when we entered as we knew we were about to witness something unique.

First we were treated to a set from support act, The North. Featuring Francis's daughter Bernadette, The North have a big sound and had the audience moving after just a few minutes. With slower numbers highlighting Bernadette's beautiful voice and solid rock songs demonstrating the bands capabilities, there was something for everyone and The North are sure to appeal. Anyone who wasn't totally convinced would have been won over by the time The North attacked the Quo classic, 'In My Chair', putting a heavier and faster spin on the trippy bluesy original. Bernadette and the North supported Status Quo on a UK tour a few years ago and, although well received, there was a feeling that the band hadn't quite found their way. With a slightly altered lineup, Bernadette is back with so much more energy and confidence, with a band who, in her own words, "are in it for the long haul", they're no longer testing the water. They're looking to make a big splash.

Following a quick interval, it wasn't long before Francis and his band, including two other guitarists and backing singers took to the stage. Smartly dressed, Francis strode out wielding his trademark green Telecaster. To the dedicated Quo fans in the audience, this seemed both familiar and unfamiliar at the same time. Joining Francis was guitarist Freddie Edwards, son of Quo bassist, John. Also present was Francis's son Nick. Several times during the course of the evening, Francis made lighthearted jokes at Nick's expense, sarcastically reminding him who was in charge. It was all very charming and made for a nice little performance on its own. There seemed to be a mutual sense of pride as Nick and Francis shared lead vocals and guitar parts. Backed by one-time Quo keyboard player Paul Hirsch, drummer Leon Cave, and bassist Gary Twigg, any insecurities Francis may have had about stepping out without the mighty Quo will have been squashed by the talent behind him. Sure, there were a few mistakes along the way, but it only served to add to the unique aspects of the show. After all, we could forgive Francis for forgetting words to songs Quo haven't actually performed live before.

Opening with a slower shuffle version of Quo's 'Caroline', any doubts about whether or not everything would go to plan were soon put aside and Francis grinned with enthusiasm. Quickly followed by, 'Claudie', a song perhaps only known by dedicated Quo fans, this was the first indication that the show would feature some special moments. Other such moments included Quo songs from the early 90's, 'Can't Give You More' and 'All We Really Wanna Do', as well as more recent releases like 'You'll Come Round' and Diggin' Burt Bacharach'. There were plenty of twists and turns, and only those of us who took a sneaky peek at the set list before the show had any idea that these songs would feature. Mixing the Quo tracks with the solo material gave us plenty of variety and it was apparent that Francis had taken the time to craft the best set possible with value for money in mind. The new material included the gentle title track, 'One Step at a Time', as well as the Quo-strength rocker, 'Strike Like Lightening'. Almost every song from the album was featured and they would sit quite nicely alongside many Quo favourites.

Stopping to retune his guitar and adjust his effects pedals in between songs, the trademark cheeky Rossi banter was in full flow as Francis joked with those of us packed at the front of the stage. On a personal note, musically speaking, Francis Rossi is my idol. I'm sure you don't want to hear me wax lyrical about it, but I'll just just say that standing right in front of him watching him play was an absolute pleasure. In such a small room, even those at the back were able to get involved and appreciate the showman Francis has become thanks to more than 40 years of touring and performing all over the world. In that time, you'd expect a man to have experienced lots of things and learnt lots of lessons, so it's no surprise that in recent years some of Francis's writing has had a slight retrospective feel to it, most evident in 'Tongue Tied', as he calmly drifts into the chorus; 'I'm just dreaming of a time long ago / I'm just dreaming of the past / I've been feeling that there's not long to go / Why does living go so fast?'

After twenty songs, Francis closed the set with Quo's 'Don't Waste My Time', making sure to include several string-bending solos which he seems to love so much. He then took the time to thank everyone for coming, giving the impression he was surprised by the large attendance. There may have even been pre-tour fears that nobody would turn up at all, but there was nothing to worry about. Leaving the stage to applause which sounded as if it was being generated by at least twice as many people, it was the perfect indication that Francis and the band had nailed it and that everyone would be going home happy.

Looking forward, Francis probably won't get much time to reflect on the success of his near sold out tour, as he will be heading straight back out on the road with Quo, but it's a safe bet that he'll be very satisfied and glad that he stepped out on this little venture.

Words/Photos by Paul Handley