CityLife

John Bramwell (I Am Kloot)

John Bramwell

John Bramwell (I Am Kloot)
Hard Rock Cafe
September 1, 2010

It’s celebration time at the Hard Rock Cafe - and what party is complete without one outspoken and confrontational guest turning up to almost ruin things?

Setting up residence in Manchester 10 years ago this month, the music-themed establishment, along with Absolute Radio, is hosting one of the city's leading songwriter legends John Bramwell (frontman with I Am Kloot) for competition winners and [*whispers*] VIPs.

While I Am Kloot have been familiar on the world's gig circuit for some time, recently-released fifth album Sky At Night has gathered attention unlike before - not only for the Elbow connection (Guy Garvey produced in-between world conquering tours), but also because it has received a Mercury Prize nomination nod alongside the likes of The XX, Biffy Clyro and Mumford And Sons.

Each delicate, acoustically-picked melody underlying Bramwell’s world-weary tales and weathered delivery has never felt so inviting - but on this occasion, Bramwell isn’t in the mood.

Following introductions, Bramwell takes to the makeshift stage beer in hand and guitar in tow to pick out a tune - but while his Manc-effected vocals and strumming are as soulful and commanding as has come to be expected, between songs he makes no secret of his disdain for his surroundings. "Guitars in cases - why? Noel Gallagher’s suit?!”.

The airing of recent single Northern Skies, a boozy rendition of To The Brink and old classic Storm Warning are met with huge cheers.

But, after only four songs and clocking in at just under 20 minutes, Bramwell announces: “I think putting me on at one of these things is pretty redundant, so see ya...”

And, like the slightly sozzled confrontational party guest, he’s off. Probably not the entertainment The Hard Rock had in mind.