The Vanguard is always a special place to catch a gig. It’s the intimate purpose built venue and restaurant that caters perfectly for acoustic Gigs such as Jeff Martin. It was obvious early on that tonight was going to be a special one and there was certain anticipation in the air. The crowd had gathered early and they enjoyed their meals while listening to Jeff’s Canadian support Colin Moore.

Colin Moore, who is a very accomplished singer songwriter in his own right, created the perfect platform as the opening act. His wonderful musicianship was there for all to see as he delighted the crowd with his unique blend of folk and his cool Smokey and raspy voice. It is just a matter of time before he is headlining tours of his own.

After a short break the Vanguard was ready to greet the Headliner and Tea Party front man Jeff Martin. Jeff, who is now an Australian citizen and proudly calls this country home, broke straight into his eclectic set of compositions. His range and dynamic songwriting gives him the ability to take the concert on a journey that is difficult to pigeonhole. From his hypnotic Indian driven soundtracks to his pure honest acoustic ballads there was something for everyone. The gig was complemented with a appreciative and well versed crowd that knew most of the material that was thrown at them.

Armed only with a guitar and a few effect pedals, this stripped back show was Mr Martin at his most Raw and I would say at his finest. He played most of the big Tea Party hits and some of solo classics. Of particular note on this night were his renditions of "Hurt", "Requiem", "The Kingdom" and a spine tingling version of "The Bazaar" on his fantastic 12 string guitar. Have a listen to "The Bazaar" here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEbeEsW3-UE&feature=fvst

There is no questioning the benefit that decades of touring have given this performer and he was at his best. Even though he had a throat complaint none of that was heard in his performance. He may have been gagging for the water bottle regularly but this did not diminish what he showed us. His abundant baritone voice powered through his double set and it was crisp and clear. He even showcased some Led Zeppelin.

Sure, the big songs where from early Tea Party albums and his first solo release, but they still sound fresh and as Jeff called it, he was playing them as they were originally written. They may have become big rock songs with the Tea Party Juggernaut but they all started with a man and his guitar.

The dark side of his personality that is so often mentioned was nowhere to be seen. We were treated to a man and his guitar and his Belly Dancer of course. The Tea Party will be touring again next year and it will be quite some time before we see Jeff playing solo again.