BLOG 2012

I was fortunate to see Rob Sowden do a masterclass in solo performing on Friday at Reading Beer Festival. I often see and hear him sing his own and others' songs when starting the Bohemian Night open-mics in the Reading area but this was actually the first time I'd seen him play solo in front of a "fresh" crowd. I don't know why I should be surprised, he should be good - he has fronted and played large audiences with Arena for many years and of course there have been his own bands too (the latest of which is Solar).

Anyway, I was impressed. I don't think I'd seen (or heard) him let rip with his voice before and the banter was good too, very relaxed; he was in complete control of what was going on. Of course he was helped by the significant PA but I felt Rob filled that tent on an unforgiving early Friday afternoon slot. The only downside I can think of is his abusive reaction when I requested American Pie! But hey, no one is perfect (:-).

Anyway, the reason for writing this is not only to applaud and highlight his performance Friday afternoon but also because I've got more chance of getting blood out of a stone than him using the social networks to advertise his gigs. (He does have a website: www.robertsebastian.co.uk). So, to that effect I just want to let you know he is playing the Hop Leaf (Reading, RG1 2QZ) tonight.

Update 18th June 2012: Rob now has a Facebook music page and is on Twitter: www.twitter.com/robertsowden.