The Bookhouse Boys @ Chapel of St Barnabas, Soho

Not being the religious sort, the last time I found myself entering a church was in 1985 when I saw the Associates perform at St James’ Church in Piccadilly. Tonight, older and allegedly wiser but no more religious, I find myself entering the Chapel of St Barnabas to witness an acoustic set by London surf rock band The Bookhouse Boys.

With a capacity of around 60 and an over-subscribed guest list we got there a little early and had time for a drink or two before the gig. Looking around the adjoining bar (Quintessentially Soho) it soon became apparent that the audience were a well dressed bunch, with waistcoats and high collars in abundance. Suffice to say that I felt a little under-dressed in my Adidas trainers and Captain America T-Shirt, but hey, I was keepin’ it real, man!

The setting for tonight’s show is breathtaking. The Chapel built in 1862 and a grade 1 listed building provides a stunning backdrop of colourful wall paintings and stained glass windows, dimly lit by a succession of candles while overhead hangs the cross of St Barnabas.

The band, displaying a fine range of facial hair (with the exception of the stunning Catherine Turner!), launch into the set with an exceptional version of ‘Shoot You Down’ and it very quickly becomes apparent why The Bookhouse boys chose this venue – the acoustics, offering natural bassy and rich tones, suit the sound of the Bookhouse Boys perfectly. It’s like they were born to play here. They continue with a selection of songs from their debut album, plus a couple of new songs (Little Girl and Oh Lord) each adapted for this special acoustic set. Though stripped of electrics, the songs with their selection of strings, percussions, brass section, keyboards and the unmistakable vocals of Paul Van Oestren and Catherine Turner, still retain their trademark lush sound. Just under an hour later things are brought to a slightly abrupt end with a seemingly unplanned encore of the excellent ‘I Believe’.

I would imagine it’s quite intimidating playing to such an intimate crowd in such an awe-inspiring location, with plenty of opportunities to slip up, but all eight players succeeded in keeping things tight throughout. It’s been an amazing performance, and as the clearly enthralled audience are ushered out there’s an overwhelming sense that we witnessed something really quite special tonight.

Photo by Mark Cousens.