Looking as though he could well be in the Murderdolls, Peter Wilson, better known as Duke Special, modestly shuffles onto the stage alone. Showcasing, and showcasing is certainly the right word, new songs and old from 2006’s ‘Songs From The Deep Forest’ accompanied by himself, a gramophone and a screen, better known to some as a drum, for some added visuals making for an very intimate set in a very intimate setting. The Duke Special debut LP was a very produced affair, leaving you wondering how this could pan out, an over produced album performed by one man and a piano, oh and not forgetting the gramophone, but you almost don’t realise it’s just one man and the whole audience is entranced and captivated by the enchantment. Note perfect with his broad Northern Irish accent, Wilson shows exactly why he had recently won a Meteor Music award, an Irish Grammy, for Best Male, picking up a trumpet and even a hint of acting, he does indeed put on a live show.
The timeless ‘Freewheel’ sounds even more stunning stripped down to it’s bear bones, and when he sends around song sheets for an audience sing-along, new song ‘Diggin’ an Early Grave’ haunts the converted church surroundings. He definitely isn’t your pretentious singer/songwriter either, he has fun with the crowd, and he comes across witty and down to earth, selling his own merchandise even, endearing himself to the crowd evermore.
It’s almost a pity he wont get the recognition he should deserve, but it makes him your secret that will make you even more fond of the Duke. He seems to have perfected the art of writing lullabying and- self-proclaimed- pitiful love songs and album number 2 can’t come along soon enough so long as it captures the live Duke Special.
