Kendal Calling’s House Party venue is exactly that: a tent crammed with beds, sofas, dining tables and even the kitchen sink. And in the midst of this shabby chic was David McAlmont.
If ever there was a man at odds with his surroundings it was the flamboyant singer. In a crisp black suit, crimson shirt and tasteful bling, he looked every inch the star attraction. And so it proved as he cheerily posed for photographs with the fans huddled in front of the stage.
With no barriers or security guards, his set was an intimate affair: just McAlmont, his keyboard player and the fans at his feet. He gave them a performance worthy of their adulation.
A sensual cover of My Funny Valentine opened proceedings, accompanied by exactly the kind of theatrical eye rolling and gesturing one might expect from such a flamboyant performer. When the singer self-mockingly asked the audience, “Do you want some camp?” it was unclear quite where he had left to go. In retrospect it was obvious that Diamonds Are Forever would follow.
Clearly keen to dispense with ‘& Butler’, the 90s group’s biggest hit Yes was thrown into the set surprisingly early – much to the joy of the dancing crowd. It was followed by a touching tribute to Amy Winehouse: a beautiful acapella version of Tears Dry On Their Own.
With the short set of just eight songs drawing to a close, McAlmont toyed with the idea of playing another track and finally, like a kid with a secret he can’t keep, decided to announce an upcoming group featuring himself and keyboardist Guy Davies. As if to deliberately showcase his new bandmate’s skills they performed a cover of Tom Waits’ Grapefruit Moon which featured some trademark swooping vocals from the singer and some extremely impressive playing from Davies – keep your eye on David McAlmont’s website for an official announcement on their collaboration soon…
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