Jerry Fish & The Mudbug Club

A packed Whelan’s awaits one of its prodigal sons for what is going to be a return, a rebirth, a rejuvenation? Who knows? Will our hero be a Fish out of water or a Bug without a rug? Thankfully, he’s neither. More chameleon than amphibian, our gravel-tongued hero takes to the shimmering, silver stage amid a blaze of brass not heard since the Mainliners were in their prime. The first strains of ‘My Friend Jim’ ring out into the October night. A roar erupts. This is how it was meant to be.

Pride of place is given to debut Mudbug album, Be Yourself, which accounts for the majority of the set. The stage looks frighteningly full at times, as the Club’s ranks swell to include the likes of Bronagh Gallagher and various members of Anúna. All the while, the former Fish-man plays the jovial master of ceremonies at a swinging, soulful, smile-inducingly joyful reunion. Highlights include the low country of ‘Bob And God’, the high camp of ‘Ring Of Fire’ and the lupine howl of ‘Daddy Was A Devil’. Welcome back, Mr Fish. You’ve been away too long.