- Music
- 15 Dec 08
This no frills live album from Tuam terriers The Saw Doctors proves the lads are at their best when on a live stage.
My first ever memories of the Saw Doctors were listening to ‘I Useta Lover’ (which is sadly omitted from this live record) being played on the radio when I was a youngster and seeing my parents get a little embarrassed by the slightly blue lyrics. From then on I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for the Galway gang, so let’s cut to the chase. This live album showcases the hard working lads as being master showmen and musicians and it’s surprising how many great songs they actually have (‘Will it Ever Stop Raining?’ ‘N17’) in their repertoire. But will it win them more fans? I’m not sure. The Saw Doctors have always been the square pegs in the round hole in the Irish music scene and depending on how you look at it, that’s either a good or a bad thing. Whatever way you cut it, it’s hard not to be charmed by Live At The Melody Tent – not least the refreshingly honest and pretension-free ‘Gone Out For A Smoke’.
Key Track: ‘N17’