Liam’s music blog- Solace at the Simeon Arms in Ryde

By Carole Dennett Oct 3, 2020

Their first gig in seven months, Isle of Wight band Solace returned to the Simeon Arms with an amazing set of material. With coronavirus putting their summer season on hold, Solace returned to the stage with high energy and brand-new songs written over lockdown for a great two sets of anthemic original material and a few throwback 80`s tunes.

New restrictions in place meant it was a little odd having to sit down during the performance, as the energy from their music only makes you want to get up and dance. A great list of well-rehearsed, catchy indie-rock tunes that filled the room with glee.

Solace’s song-writing is very catchy. With incredible electric guitar solos from Paul Les, funky bass guitar riffs from Pete Mulhern and brilliant drum fills from Martin Osborne, their songs are topped off with catchy pop melodies and amazing vocals from Simon Dobbs, who also adds acoustic guitar.

The band’s stage presence demands the room and provides a joyful spirit. Light-hearted humour and engagement with the audience kept the gig flowing and relaxed all night.

The band’s talent is very impressive, with Simon’s incredible vocals being the highlight of the gig for me. Their bright and uplifting songs fill the room with energy and make you want to dance all night (at your seat, of course); a great local talent that is worth going to see.

Follow Solace on their YouTube and Facebook page under @solacebandiow to keep updated on the band’s new music and upcoming gigs.