Best gigs of 2010

This year I don't think I've ever been so many seated gigs but I have to say it's been pretty nice to not only have a guaranteed place and not be pushed around but also have a nice little sit down during the show. I guess I'm getting old because I used to measure how good a concert was by the amount of bruises I sustained throughout. Maybe because of this there wasn't as many shows that blew me away (aside from the first three) but I have to say that overall I've seen some fantastic gigs this year and got to see a few legends in the process. So, in descending order, here's my 10 favourite shows from 2010 (with links to the original write-ups). Let's hope 2011 has just as many great concerts to look forward to.

10. Ryan Bingham & The Dead Horses at Bush Hall

9. Robert Plant & The Band Of Joy at The Forum

8. She & Him at Koko

7. Crosby, Stills & Nash at Royal Albert Hall

6. Jeff Tweedy at Union Chapel

5. Elvis Costello at Royal Festival Hall

4. Joanna Newsom at Royal Festival Hall

3. Rickie Lee Jones at Union Chapel

2. Iggy & The Stooges at Hammersmith Apollo

1. Kris Kristofferson at Cadogan Hall

Elvis Costello at the Royal Festival Hall

Elvis Costello
Kami Thompson
Royal Festival Hall, 20 June 2010

Looking a cross between a 30s gangster and a vaudeville man, Elvis Costello seems glad to be back in London despite showing a reluctance in recent years to return home. Bouncing onto the stage full of energy, his surprisingly booming voice fills the Royal Festival Hall and it becomes quickly apparent that this is to be the loudest acoustic show I’ve ever been to.