Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott put on a great evening (he of The Housemartins and Beautiful South, with Jacqui of Beautiful South fame too) - a really good vibe and atmosphere, and will likely leave with a smile on your face.
They’ll change the tempos to some of the more popular tunes to keep things fresh and fun etc.
There are a few youtube videos of them live - in concert both indoor and at festivals etc.
Johnny Marr (of The Smiths, Electronic fame) also puts on a top show; superb guitar playing and a lengthy catalog of music to choose from 😉 Plus, he is getting more confident in his own right as a vocalist too. At times you may think he’s not playing live - as his guitar playing sounds the same as it does in the studio or for a single release - the man is that good.
Johnny Marr - Getting Away With It (6 Music Live October 2014)
Johnny Marr performing “How Soon Is Now?” Live at KCRW’s Apogee Sessions
The Specials and the The Beat (The English Beat in the US, and RIP Roger) are well worth catching if you can - great atmosphere at their gigs.
John Power (of Cast, and The La’s) is well worth going to - a top night out.
Dido was surprisingly good - just wasn’t expecting it (I wasn’t a fan, previously thought she was a little bland, and went as a favour for a mate), yet she great sense of humour & interaction with the crowd. Good voice and turned up the power and range as and when.
Jazz wise, Candy Dulfer (saxaphonist) puts on a good show - she a very strong band playing with her - modern, covers, funk, as well as some traditional.
For more modern stuff you’d have to ask someone else 😃 Though… The Tea Street Band, The High Dials, and The Cheap Thrills all put on a good set.
My apologies for the delay! I’ve not had a chance to listen as I don’t have high speed data for another few days but I’ll have a listen to these suggestions when I do! Thank you so very much. Always enjoy hearing new tunes and artists. Don’t worry about the modern stuff. There’s very few current artists I like. I’ll try to come up with some recommendations for you too and send it when I have data! 🙂