Monday night at the Islington Bar Academy and the main act of the evening is the young Mark Joseph. His dad proudly tells us that through lots of promotions at schools and colleges they managed to sell 5000 records and has gained a reputation that finally got them a record deal. But this is not the reason why I’m here at this half full venue filled with Mark Joseph’s family and friends.

Iain Archer is filling the support slot. He walks into the venue and to the side of the stage where he takes off his jacket and quietly takes to the stage with just a selection of guitars. He starts his set with the wonderful “I Wasn’t Drinking But You Got Me Drunk”. His short set consists of songs from his “Flood the Tanks” album which was released a month ago to glowing reviews. He does a good job of charming the audience with an explanation to the only new song that he plays. It’s about a dirty, stinking park in Belfast.

Seeing him play in such a small venue is such a treat. I’m not sure why he has been chosen as support for tonight as he really deserves more attention and a more appreciative audience. His songs, even just with an acoustic guitar retain the power of the record. His voice is impressive live; it’s still fragile and emotional. His songs are of a superior quality compared to what we hear later on in the night. What we get are genuine, melodic tunes played with such intensity and passion that you can’t help but be impressed by this Northern Irish singer.

He finishes off with new single Summer Jets, using an electric guitar he raises the volume and intensity, which is a great way to close. It really begs the question, when is the headlining tour?

Review by Sonia Pagliari

www.iainarcher.com