Lawton Dunning Project - One More Night (Live)


Year of Release: 2002
Label: Classic Rock Productions
Catalog Number: CRP1019
Format: CD
Total Time: 63:17:00

No, this is not a Phil Collins cover album. This is a collaboration between vocalist John Lawton (Lucifer's Friend) and multi-instrumentalist Steve Dunning, recorded live at London's Mean Fiddler. This live album breathes a very warm atmosphere, where Lawton and Dunning are supported by an excellent band, including a guest performance by keyboardist Ian Jennings (Mostly Autumn).

When I first played this, I thought I received a blues album to review, as the first song, aptly called "Still Paying My Dues To The Blues," is a blues song in every facet, from the vocals to the mouth harp, and I was wondering where was the classic rock or even progressive rock on the album? However, a closer look at the track listing showed me half the songs were originally played by Uriah Heep. And even more: John Lawton used to be vocalist of this classic band from 1977 until 1979! But there ends the comparison with Heep, for all these songs are brought in quite a different version, not quite the Heep I know. Yet the songs, including several Lucifer's Friend songs, are played with much enthusiasm and obviously the audience is having a great time. Although there are a few nice guitar solos on the album, it is mainly an acoustic album, with really great vocals from John Lawton, who has a hint of Ronnie James Dio in his voice.

I have to be honest: One More Night is a good album, with a first class performance. But it I think you have to be a fan of Lawton - Dunning or this kind of music. Unfortunately it does not do much for me, so I cannot say anymore about it. I think it is worth a listen, and I suggest you do that before you buy it. There are prog elements on the album, but not much. Personally I would go for the original Uriah Heep material with Lawton on vocals.

Similar bands: Mostly Autumn, Karnataka

[This review originally appeared July 2003 at the ProgPower Online review site -ed.]


Tracklisting:
Still Payin' My Dues / Feelings / Burning Ships / Firefly/Come Back To Me / Wise Man / I'm Alive / Rain / Don't Kill The Fire / Tonight / Been Hurt / Shoulder To Cry On / One More Night

Musicians:
John Lawton - vocals, harmonica, acoustic guitar
Steve Dunning - acoustic and electric guitars, bass, background vocals
Graham Hulme - acoustic guitar, bass, background vocals
Ian Jennings - keyboards
Chris Jones - drums
Rob Mack - sax
Erol Sora - guitar

Discography:
(selected)

John Lawton - Heartbeat (1980)
John Lawton - Still Paying My Dues To The Blues (2000) Hensley Lawton Band - The Return (Live At The Heepvention 2000) (2000)
Lawton Dunning Project - Steppin' It Up (2002)
Lawton Dunning Project - One More Night (Live) (2002)
(2002)
John Lawton Band - Shakin The Tale: Live 2003 (2004)

Genre: Other

Origin VA

Added: May 29th 2005
Reviewer: Marcel Haster
Score:
Artist website: www.johnlawton.org
Hits: 2998
Language: english

  

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