I hop on the Northern Line and easily make it to Plakka's gig at Tommy Flynns in Camden Town. Tommy Flynns is a real surprise; I was expecting a typical Camden pub with a minimal investment in a bit of a PA, just enough so it could put on gigs. In fact they have a stage and good sound and lights and I am shocked. Rather than lounging around with a pint of Guiness, as I had intended, I am inspired to take some pictures. And Plakka with their singer restored are very good.
They seem to have adapted to losing their keyboards much quicker than they did to losing drums. The result is maybe more conventional but also more focused. Only last week I was espousing a view that some bands have too many members and lose both focus and edge as a result. So perhaps I am just seeing this effect because I'm looking for evidence to support my proposition, but there is a chance that I am right. Just to avoid any confusion my remarks about 'too many people' in bands is not aimed at anyone in particular, just a general theory. When you have seen what the two people in Little Fish can achieve it is difficult to contemplate a band of six or more.
Somewhere earlier I was saying I enjoyed Plakka.....We sat and had some drinks afterwards, watching a good blues band who largely (or maybe wholly) did covers. I have a vague recollection of 'Who do you love' going on for a long time. Pleasant entertainment.