HAL

There aren't too many bands that I would make the effort to see live more than about twice a year - with the obvious exception of Bon Jovi if given half a chance. Hal, however, are another exception to the rule. Since first seeing them play last December, I've seen them on several occasions with a variety of responses.

If there's one thing I've gleaned from the experience, it's that, on the whole, Hal's best gigs typically take place in smaller venues where you truly get a sense of the audience's enthusiasm for their music. This gig in the Camden Barfly was no exception.
And it all could have gone so wrong. By the time Hal finally came on stage around 40 minutes late, a number in the crowd were openly expressing their impatience. As soon as they began to play, however, the mood altered as most were immediately won over.

The music more than speaks for itself, with the band's mistakes even failing to detract from the spectacle. Lead singer Dave's attempts to play a different song from the rest of the band could have fallen flat in some circumstances, however, with a shrug of the shoulders and some Irish charm, they continued on unperturbed.
Stumbling across Hal again just a couple of days later at the Innocent Drinks Fruitstock Festival just confirmed my views. This is definitely one band you should grab the opportunity to see in a small venue while you can. It's something special.