Danny Green (aka Laish) spent years in Brighton, churning out some of the best songs you could ever want to hear, but with little recognition. Now he’s moved up to London, released a third album ‘Pendulum Swing‘ and is finally getting some of the attention his pointed and personal songwriting deserves.

Laish came back to town last week with a new band line-up for a hugely enjoyable set at the Prince Albert. Green was prowling the stage like a deranged madman for the opening few songs, firing his guitar like a machine gun, attacking his set with verve. However, in the course of the set he really gave it all – soft numbers, harder rock outs, full band pop, solo spots, and for one song serenading the audience off stage with no microphone.

He played songs from the new album with vigour, such as the wonderful earworm ‘Learning To Love The Bomb’ which got the audience swinging, as well as a variety of older classics. There were personal interludes, like his near indiscretion over the subject of the song ‘Gambling’. For the terrific finale of ‘Carry Me’ Danny took over the drums and the rest of the band swapped instruments.

But it was all memorable, magical, moving. Fundamentally, Danny Green writes some of the best pop songs around. If you’ve not heard Laish, you’re missing out. And if they come to a town near you, make sure you go and enjoy the fun.

Support came from the charming harpist Emma Gatrill who has just released her second album ‘Cocoon‘ on Japanese label Flau, and is also well worth seeking out.

Prince Albert, Wednesday 15th March 2017
Words and photos by Jon Southcoasting