Apparently it's easy to describe Alfie. Mancunian, pastoral, folky, woozy, lazy, the impending summertime, singer Lee Gorton's cheekbones, Tim Burgess-esque nasal drawl, lank hair, Argyle sweaters and that's it, isn't it?
While all of the above is true it doesn't explain exactly what makes Alfie worthy of our attention. This is a band who've managed to make an antiquated, totally unfashionable, derided style - usually associated with ageing bearded men (and women) and the local rambling association - relevant, necessary and occasionally rocking. It shouldn't work but it does because Alfie make it all sound so effortless. While others find it necessary to crowbar the odd effect and loop into mix to create a contemporary edge and sense of identity (Gomez anyone?) Alfie simply let it flow.
Tonight they lay the Twisted Nerve chapter of their history to rest having signed up to the big league and major label cash. As ramshackle and charming as ever they amble on stage one by one, Lee Gorton arriving last, without his stool. The self appointed Mr. Good Vibes of proceedings he winks and smiles, performs his own version of the Manchester frontman's monkey dance and is so humble and appreciative it would melt the heart of even the most hardened of cynics. Yet despite this the cheeky, assured look on his face seems to say, "you ain't seen nothing yet."
Songs from their early EP's, now old favourites, are rapturously received. A glorious 'Montevideo', sumptuous 'It's Just About the Weather' (cue giddy sing-a-long) and celebratory 'Umlaut' are all taken to dizzy new heights. New album, 'A Word in Your Ear' is superbly represented with the tipsy, askew strings of 'Cloudy Lemonade', the aural equivalent of an attempt to walk in a straight line after eight pints of scrumpy while 'Summer Lanes' absolutely rocks, albeit ever so gently. New songs are debuted, all featuring an impressive slightly beefier, heavier sound which isn't so much folk, more rocking chair. And finally, running out of their own songs they return for a stunning version of Fat Larry's Band's 'Zoom', side-stepping one and all to great effect.
Live Alfie thrill and surprise in a distinctly laid back fashion, their rough edges and lackadaisical style a joy to behold. As they depart to work on new material just prey that talk of singing lessons (really not necessary) and bigger budgets doesn't introduce an unnecessary sheen. Alfie are a national treasure, by all means dig them up and share the riches but leave them as they are.
