Gig Review : Shorthouse
Photo Cred : Jodie Blyth
Lead Vocals & Guitar : Rob McLaughlin
Guitar : Erin Ferguson
Keys : Elaine Shorthouse
Bass : Jonny Richardson
Drums : Finlay Smith
16 December 2021
Shorthouse graced the stage of The Voodoo Rooms to perform their debut gig on the 5th of December accompanied by support acts, Grayling and Cathal Murphy.
The line-up consists of Rob McLaughlin on lead vocals and guitar, Elaine Shorthouse on keys, Erin Ferguson on guitar, Jonny Richardson on bass and Finlay Smith on drums. The band who formed in 2020, have been making a name for themselves in the Edinburgh live music scene, blending indie, folk and rock to create their own sound.
The night opens with a song called ‘The Man of The House’ powered by strong keys and drums mixed with a jazzy melody. The blue and red hypnotic stage lights fly around the room as a funky guitar solo grips the audience, emanating Fleetwood Mac undertones.
Photo Cred : Karina Caulfield
19-year-old Rob introduces himself and his talented band members to the crowd, highlighting his very own mum is present, playing keys. A warm and bustling atmosphere surrounds the speakeasy style venue.
After playing three energetic songs, the mood changes to captivate a slower and emotional tone with special guest, Catriona Reid accompanying the band on cello. “This is really difficult not to cry at, it’s easier if you all cry with me”, jokes Rob.
The atmospheric cello allows the crowd to just be still and watch. Rob’s soulful voice falls in and out of falsetto as the raw sound of the folky guitar resonates. ‘Edge of Inside’ ends with the band delivering enchanting accapella harmonies.
Next up is ‘To Get The Green Light’ which Rob reveals was written about growing up and discovering many people you meet do not share the same morals as you. This time Rob plays the keys alongside Catriona on cello. The poignant and metaphorical lyrics throughout uncovers an honest and moving reflection.
The band move on to play two of their released tracks such as ‘Walls End’ (2020) which was written by lyricist, Colin Graham over 20 years ago, as well as their new co-written song, ‘Lived’. Rob shares his appreciation of their song writing partnership, announcing “it’s the first of many to come!”
'Walls End' begins slow and emotive with a strong presence of keys. The song then unravels by the enhancement of powerful drums which creates a deeper and heightened atmosphere.
‘Lived' is a reflection on life’s highs and lows and the events that bookmark it. Rob opens the song with ‘‘I’ve noticed, I’ll never get out if I left it up to you. All the rivers I could flow down, you’ll never have to swim through."
The upbeat song is played with passion filled with funky guitar and bass. The excitement of Shorthouse’s new track is evident as the audience begin singing the catchy chorus back to the band: “But it’s alright, alright, it’s all life, don’t rush through.” An uplifting mood showers the room.
Shorthouse delivered an impressive debut, showcasing each band member’s sheer range of talents. After headlining the Voodoo Rooms, the band will go on to play across Scotland in venues such as The Mash House, Websters Theatre, The Tolbooth, The Hug and Pint and PJ Molloys.
Author : Karina Caulfield
Gig Dates
​
15/12/2021 : The Mash House (past)
16/12/2021 : Websters Theatre
17/12/2021 : The Tolbooth
10/01/2022 : The Hug and Pint
29/01/2022 : PJ Molloys
Encore : A Fine Art to Love n Live
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!