(photos coming soon).
The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican: A Band in Full Swing
Last year, I wrote about how The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican continued to bring their unique mix of comedy, musicianship, and energy to audiences despite the changes in their lineup. At the time, the nerves were clearly visible, but now, a year on, it’s even clearer that they’ve truly found their rhythm.
The band has always been about more than just laughs – underneath the daft lyrics and the outrageous stage outfits lies a group of seriously talented musicians. With the newer members now fully bedded in, that talent is shining through more than ever. Nowhere is this more obvious than in their vocal harmonies, which have taken a noticeable step up.
A perfect example of this is Campervan of Love. Always a crowd-pleaser, this song has been elevated by the tighter, richer harmonies that show just how well the current lineup has gelled. It’s not just about hitting the right notes – there’s a confidence and smoothness to the way they perform together that proves they’re more than just a band with a rotating door of members. They are a solid unit, and it shows.
Beyond the old favourites, tonight’s set showcased a number of new tracks, most notably Useless Uber, which had the crowd in hysterics. The band’s ability to craft songs that are both musically tight and genuinely funny remains unmatched, and this latest addition to their repertoire is proof of that.
What was also refreshing was the inclusion of some less-played tracks, a decision that paid off brilliantly. It was vindication, if it were needed, that the choices made a year ago to continue the band in this form were absolutely the right ones. They are not just keeping the show on the road – they are pushing forward, refining their craft, and proving that The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican are stronger than ever.
Ultimately, they have always been about delivering joy, and in this latest incarnation, they’re doing it better than ever. If last year was about finding their feet with a new lineup, this year is about showing just how strong they’ve become. Long may they continue.
I would say that the band have matured over the last year… but that would be a barefaced lie, and frankly, I’d be worried if they had.
