“The job of opening the concerts of the 21st Century Schizoid Band on their British tour was given to Steve Lawson and it proved to be an excellent coupling. Lawson served as a rival attraction, with his innovative soundscaping for solo bass, to the older sounds of the former Crimson members, even though, in the course of the concert, Steve underlined the connection that linked his musical offerings with the music of King Crimson, making reference to Frippertronics.
Steve Lawson opened his short set with No More Us And Them, a piece that will be included on his forthcoming new album, in which he immediately displayed his technique of layering loops created in real time, without any pre-recorded foundation.
From the album And Nothing But the Bass he then performed the wonderful The Inner Game, followed by another new composition from his new album, entitled MMFSOG. Between the pieces, all played with a great mastery of various devices, pedals and e-bow, Steve entertained the audience with great charm.
What a shame that his opening act lasted such a short time, less than half an hour. Highway One was followed by a short improvisation, after which Steve Lawson bade farewell to the audience with a beautiful version of the classic Fly Me To The Moon.
Later in the evening, Steve informed me that he would soon be undertaking a tour, including Italy, with Michael Manring. I hope to be able to confirm the dates as soon as possible. Try not to miss the opportunity to hear live a young man who is a phenomenal bassist and who will certainly be attracting the attention of the wider public before long.”