Start to End perform Carole King’s Tapestry

Mitchell Theatre

Richard Walker

Four stars

Start to End are nothing if not an ambitious band and their show for Celtic Connections could easily have fallen flat on its face. The idea of performing classic albums from beginning to end has proved a popular one, impressing audiences with their interpretations of classic works by Bowie, Radiohead and Pink Floyd, among others.

At last year’s Celtic Connections they tackled Joni Mitchell’s Court and Spark – some of the most sophisticated pop music ever recorded – and were rewarded with a sold-out venue.

But Tapestry? Really? Few albums have claimed a central place in so many hearts. The figures speak for themselves. Twenty five million copies sold. It topped the American album charts for 15 weeks when it was released in 1971 and stayed in the charts for more than six years. It’s packed full of classics and hit singles. So if you want a comfortable night to stage, performing Tapestry probably isn’t the way to do it.

Particularly not for tonight’s lead vocalist for the evening Rachel Lightbody, who must perform the whole evening knowing that it leads inexorably to (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, the beloved classic transformed into a powerhouse ballad by none other than Aretha Franklin.

Performing classic albums present particular challenges. Reinventing the material might be a brave move but is probably domed to failure as audiences expectations are dashed on the rocks of jazz versions of heavy rock classics.

Simply recreating the original material is safer but boredom is certain to seep in as it becomes obvious there will be few surprises in store.

And in truth tonight’s opener, track one, side one I Feel the Earth Move suggested note for note cover versions would be the evening’s fare. There was nothing wrong with the funk by numbers run-through but it didn’t exactly set the theatre alight. There was the distinct feeling the eight-piece band were overawed by their choice of material

But although Start to End were obviously not in the business of reinvention, nor were they content to aim for noting more than recreation. As So Far Away, It’s Too Late and Home Again came and went it was clear the band were intent on inhabiting these songs and bringing them back to life with energy and vigour.

By the time they really hit their strike with way Over Yonder they had forged a real emotional connection not just with the songs but with the audience.

Lightbody was the standout performer but every band member contributed some perfect moments, particularly some fantastic piano and guitar interplay and relatively brief but effective soloing from sax player Bill Fleming.

You’ve Got a Friend sparked an emotional singalong, Where You Lead captivated Gilmore Girls fans, Will You Love Me Tomorrow broke hearts in every row. And yes, Lightbody smashed the Aretha Franklin classic, bringing the whole theatre to its feet.