You may not have realised this but David Gray has been wobbling that head of his for over 10 years. Had you momentarily had his name blocked out of your mind, the obligatory greatest hits compilation is the nudge to indicate Gray’s around albeit hovering quietly in the background. Think about him seriously and you’ll probably be hard pushed to come up with more than three songs – ‘Babylon’, ‘This Year’s Love’ and ‘Please Forgive Me’. Actually add to that ‘Be Mine’, ‘The One I Love’, ‘The Other Side’ and ‘Sail Away’ or perhaps that’s just me being a bit of a smart arse.

Looking dapper in a sharply cut black suit, Gray’s on comedic form and grinning from ear to ear, with tonight being one of three consecutive nights at the newly refurbished Roundhouse to promote the greatest hits album. The collection also seals the end of his long-term relationship with his record label and quite possibly a fresh new beginning for Gray so there’s no better way to pull out all stops than taking over this fine venue. 

An acoustic version of ‘Babylon’ from his 2000 breakthrough album White Ladder is dropped very early on and is one to savour with the heaving crowd taking the reigns for the chorus and the sound of their voices ricocheting around the dome-like roof.

Armed with his box of tricks, Gray keeps pulling out song after song, effortlessly switching from guitar to tinkering with the ivories and clocking in with a colossal two hour set. Spoilt for choice, it’s a close call between ‘Be Mine’, ‘The Other Side’ and ‘The One I Love’ that blast his tender folk-rock charms to thunderous, new heights, perfectly fused by the lighting and the subtle back-drop for a mesmerising performance. 

It’s easy to dismiss Gray on record but live, his charm and charisma will bowl you over. As for his music, you’ll think twice before writing off what many dub as a legend in the making.

(4/5)