Stereophonics Kelly Jones and The Wind and the Wave’s Patty Lynn join forces to perform their debut self-titled album on a near sell-out show around the country, but will the collaboration be the rich and harmonious blend of rock, country and Amerciana that we’re promised?

It felt like a night of reminiscence and nostalgia. A cosy, welcoming space with permission to feel what needed to be felt comforted by great music in good company. It was a log cabin in the woods with a crackling fire listening to stories and being comforted by the sounds of the guitars, the drums, and the incredible vocals.

Now, for me, this was the first time I was hearing many of these Far From Saints tracks, so I can’t imagine how much joy and heart this must convey for their fans.

Far From Saints is a sound spanning across country, folk, rock, and American and it’s a rich, smooth collaboration. It’s a credit to emotive meaningful storytelling and song-writing.

For anybody that knows me, they know I’m a swiftie, so it was wonderful to hear Maya Lane as their opening act who gave a Taylor Swift-esque sound complete with emotionally mature songs and her beautiful tribute to female empowerment “I’m Just a Girl”. I thought she was a superb opening act to warm up the folk atmosphere.

Cue Far From Saints. The crowd roared and it’s evident that so many were there to see Kelly Jones from Stereophonics, with many loving cheers when Jones and Patty Lynn asked who had seen them perform ‘Stop Dragging My Heart Around’ when they first toured together.

Perhaps it was that moment that the pair realised they had undeniable musical chemistry. A smooth and harmonious blend.

The combination of the Stereophonics and The Wind and the Wave is a truly unique and deeply emotive combination. There were many moments throughout the 90 minute set where you could just allow the music to pass through you. To allow yourself to feel it. Really listen.

I found a particular highlight in the performance of ‘Screaming Hallelujah’, ‘Let the Light Shine Over You’ and ‘Let’s Turn This Back Around’. I also enjoyed the unique performance of ‘Own It’ on the ukulele and Kelly Jones’ anecdote about his long-standing friendship before hand. I think this truly solidified what this is all about.

Great friends, making great music with a deep and meaningful meaning. On the road making great memories to share with fans.

Now, I often think there’s something beautiful about heading into a concert (or theatre production!) blind. I find that you build this strong emotional connection straight off. You go in absorbing it all. You go in hearing and seeing something for the very first time. And, when that pays off, it truly pays off.

Alex has been a long-standing fan of Stereophonics. I’m pretty sure he told me it was 2005 when he first watched them perform live. Me, however, can belt out Handbags and Gladrags and Have a Nice Day but then I’m stumped. One of us a complete Stereos and Kelly Jones fan, the other going in completely blind but appreciating good music especially if it comes with a good band! Far From Saints certainly delivered for the pair of us.

I believe some of the songs sound as though they’d pop in nicely with Taylor Swift’s Evermore slash Folklore eras with the emotionally mature storytelling, or also those who like The Shires, will greatly enjoy the songs. I found many of the songs, of course, being reminiscent of The Stereophonics too.

Fans of the Stereophonics will love seeing Kelly Jones and Richard Jones having the best time on stage connecting. Fans of The Wind and the Wave will love hearing Patty Lynn and Dwight Baker. And, to the newbies, who like country-rock like me, you’ll enjoy relaxing and taking in the atmosphere.

The show is almost sold out for the rest of the tour, but if you already have tickets, you’re in for a treat.

For further info and for tickets visit: Far From Saints | Official website (farfromsaintsband.com)

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