Rob Clamp’s performance on Saturday night at the Crosfield Hall in Romsey was an overdue homecoming for this Romsey musician after tours that took him to Bulgaria, Germany and Ireland.
It was obviously an important evening for the Romsey fans to show their support, as they were there in number.
As with all Rob’s shows, it was a powerful display of acoustic artistry and skilful musicianship. Known for his deep connection to folk and rock roots, Clamp drew on influences like Bruce Springsteen and Ben Howard to deliver another stirring performance.
His set featured a mix of tracks from his debut album Lost Soul, released earlier this year, with songs standing out for emotive storytelling and intricate guitar work.
His unplugged rendition of “All Quiet On The Western Front” sent the room into silence with its heartfelt lyrics.
Clamp has been making waves in the UK folk scene, earning accolades like winning the Purbeck Rising award in 2022 and performing at prestigious events like the AMA UK Showcase in London.
His voice, praised for its “controlled power” and ability to retain purity even during the emotional highs of his songs, was on full display.
Supported by foot percussion and rich acoustic guitar arrangements, Clamp’s performance resonated with both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
With Rob’s good friend Sam Weeks making a surprise appearance with his intuitive banjo accompaniment, the room was filled with the unique Rob Clamp atmosphere.
Even the encore gave a unique feel to the evening. When the fuse on the sound system blew, no more than 30 seconds into the final song, Rob and Sam were undaunted.
Showing their professionalism and showmanship, they both unplugged their instruments, jumped from the stage to join the audience and to play the final song, unplugged, from the middle of the smiling fans.
The supporting acts of Anna Muir, Guillotine Union Boys and Charlie Smith complemented Clamp’s performance beautifully.
Muir’s haunting vocals and Smith’s punk-inspired acoustic set added variety to the evening, making it a well-rounded showcase of local talent, with a relaxed, communal atmosphere.
In all, it was a night that highlighted Rob Clamp’s growing influence in the UK acoustic scene, leaving the audience eager for his upcoming headline show in April at The Brook in Portswood.
Review and photographs by Peter Nicholson
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