There is a theory I recently read which I grew to understand whilst watching Lanterns on the Lake perform at the Static Gallery. The Oppositional Romance theory by Simon Darvell talks about serendipitous events where two entirely separate objects, totally unrelated, existing in Kali’s realm of Chaos, discover one another by chance. These seperate objects pass through one another to create what Darvell understands as 'momentary nirvana'. I Kant for the life and death of Descartes pretend to understand any such theories of philosophy nor will I even attempt to understand, but what I can make sense of was the beautiful accompaniment of Geordie sextet, Lanterns on the Lake.It wasn’t simply a case of band taking centre stage, instruments readily in hands, vocals ovulating nine or so songs, encore, final song, applause, and exit. There was a genuine ménage-a-trois romance between (object number one) Lanterns on the Lake, (object number two) The Static Gallery, and its audience (momentary nirvana). A romance that gave way to a mass moment of reflection and situational appreciation. As I Love you Sleepyhead was performed it was impossible not to observe my company and learn to love them just that little bit more. What confirmed the legitimacy of such dramatic proclamations was the general agreement of that very company upon later reflection. The atmosphere created by such delicate music, performed in such an appropriate venue, and attended by such an appreciative audience, made for a moment now etched into my memory and the memory of those who were fortunate to see Lanterns on the Lake at The Static Gallery. Simply charming, Simply Irresistible. (No there is never an inappropriate time for a Sarah Michelle Gellar movie reference).
A wondrous show from a wonderful band.