SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: HOWARD JONES – LIVE AT THE MARQUEE

HOWARD JONES
LIVE AT THE MARQUEE
CHERRY RED RECORDS

I was lucky to see Howard Jones on his first Canadian tour in 1984. It was just following the release of his first solo album, Human’s Lib, and he was brilliant and energetic. He put on a great show, with help from his dancer, Jed. Live at the Marquee, however, was recorded a year prior to the release of Human’s Lib. Those lucky enough to see him in 1983 can now enjoy that 43-year-old concert. At this point in his career, he was six months away from releasing his debut album, but had had a couple of top ten singles in the U.K. In 1983, Jones had a lot to prove as he was at the beginning of his career. Both of those hit songs are captured live at this show at the iconic Marquee.

The first thing that strikes the listener is just how good this recording sounds. It leaps out of the speakers, and it creates a great experience. Because the sound is so good, one hears just how good Jones has always been in concert. It is also difficult to believe that he is alone on the stage. He makes a great sound. Having seen him in 2024, nothing has changed. He embraces live performances and sees them as not only an opportunity to connect with his audience but also a chance to really break loose and have fun.

The songs do not differ greatly from the released versions, but it is interesting to consider that he was still putting the finishing touches on his album. And other than the singles, fans were being treated to music they had not heard. But, no doubt, Jones won the audience over with his spirited and lively concert. Listen to the crowd erupt when he starts “New Song, and cue into his excited and happy vocals. The song comes alive and Jones adds little touches to the song. As with the whole show, Jones is singing directly from his heart.

Jones has released several live albums, but this one is very special, given how early in his career it was recorded. Live at the Marquee is fascinating as he only had the one album’s worth of material, whereas other of his live albums include songs from a much larger catalogue of music. Live at the Marquee is a fascinating glimpse into his career and hear his joy in performing live.

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