Wayne Hussey + Mauro Passos @ Plano B

 

Wayne Hussey (Sisters of Mercy, Mission) returned to Portugal for two semi-acoustic concerts included in the tour he’s been doing to promote his new solo album, “Songs of candlelight and razorblades”. I was lucky enough to be at Plano B (Oporto) to enjoy some great songs played by one of the most iconic and talented musicians of the British Goth/Rock scene.

The night started with a special guest, Mauro Passos. Portuguese musician and composer who combines progressive rock with the sound of traditional Portuguese instruments (Portuguese guitar and viola, cavaquinho), played songs of Carlos Paredes and others of his own. For two of them he made himself accompanied by Deodato Barbosa who also plays with him in the tribute to Carlos Paredes “Uma Guitarra Com Gente Dentro”. Although short in time it was a very good performance; Mauro started somewhat nervous but became more confident at each song and with the energy that emanate from the audience.

After a short break for changing instruments and some refreshments, Mr. Wayne Hussey appeared cutting through the crowd into the stage holding just an elixir to help him in his endeavor. Has he mentioned during the concert he had to get a flight to Lisbon, drive to Oporto and after repeat the trip again to Lisbon, he surely needed all the energy he could get. But the truth is apart all that stress his voice was just great. He sang around twenty songs for the delight of the audience (me included), always cheerful and talkative and only in the last couple of songs we could sense some tiredness in his voice.

Although this was an act to promote his last album he cheered the public with solo versions from iconic songs of The Mission, like “Severina”, “Butterfly On A Wheel”, “Deliverance” or “Amelia” and covers like “Martha’s Harbour” (All About Eve) and “Careless Whisper” (Wham); he also played an “acapella like” song with pre-synthesized choirs. At the end of the show swiftly has he came he left the stage for some well deserved rest.

Definitely one of the best concerts I’ve attend to. A night for the young alike of my generation and before, a night to remember for the memories it brought back and for the show itself; thank you Mr. Wayne.

I also have to thank Rocknradio, Goth n’ Rock Productions for the organization and specially Inês Marques for the welcoming and the facilities. See you all next time.