Gig Review: Gerald Clark live at Urban House

By Marley

“I have missed the blues,” a friend of mine told me right after Gerald played his last note. I had to agree with her, I’ve missed the blues especially the way Gerald Clark plays it. On Wednesday 12 February 2020, we sat at Urban House in Nelspruit, listening to Gerald’s beautiful soulful voice light up the night.

Urban House is a pretty new venue in the city. It is situated where the old Stoep used to be but let me tell you – completely renovated. It was clean, open and the layout is just so much better. Bathrooms are now outside, the stage is small but humble, the paving is even…a welcome sight really. This was my first time at Urban House and I did enjoy the energy that is there now. I think what made it even better is that blues that filled the air.

The small but encouraging crowd welcomed Gerald back into the city after a 3-year absence. Gerald now lives in the Czech Republic with his girl, who had joined him on this countrywide tour. Gerald who started his inland tour with Nelspruit was just too happy to return to friends that have become family to him over the years. Gerald played many of his songs like “Black Horses”, “All I need is your love” and more. His covers were nothing like you’ve heard before and for the slightest moments, I’ve missed STRAB and the feeling the beach sand underneath my feet. Instead of playing two sets, Gerald felt the energy was just too good and ended up with one long set. Much to the pleasure of the fans under the garden lights. He filled our souls with his talents and the evening just couldn’t be long enough. I can literally spend hours listening to Gerald’s music, welcome back my friend.

All in all, Gerald can always come back to the Lowveld. He seems calmer, better – maybe I’ve just missed my friend. As he continues on his tour, he is already speaking about coming back in 2021 for another tour. All his dreams and an upcoming tour of France, Belgium, Netherlands and Germany is going to be a blast. Follow his Facebook page if you just happen to be there. I’m sorry that so many people missed out on this afro boer this time round. But he will be back, he always comes back home. Let us not miss the blues too long again.

Marley VW

Marley is the founder and owner of Small Town Music. Born and bred in Nelspruit aka Nelsparta. Marley loves music (rock being a firm favourite), tattoos, festivals, animals and South Africa. Self-taught photographer and writer.