Ben Ottewell

Genial Giant would be an appropriate moniker for Ben, I dare say it's been used elsewhere but it's apposite. Travelling solo literally, as he revealed when he mentioned next year's Gomez tour, he rued that he was much looking forward to having a guitar tech again. Time is spent adjusting between different tunings but the small gathering at the Cavern in Exeter were patient and straining for every note and line. His previous gig at this venue was affected by noisy revellers in the bar area at the side so it was good to hear that he was pleased to be back. This time he only had a couple of over-enthusiastic and probably over-lubricated fans attempting what Ben generously referred to as 'ambitious' harmonies, from which they were asked to refrain later on. The set was a generous mix of songs from Shapes & Shadows, Rattlebag and his recent release, A Man Apart. His banter between songs is quite brief but good humoured ('Blackbird - but not the Paul McCartney one' and 'Starlings - but not the Elbow one'). In addition he seems to have started warming up for the Bring It On 20th Anniversary shows early by throwing in more old Gomez familiars to delight the faithful than I remember him doing in a handful of solo shows. He even responded favourably to a request for China Doll, a Grateful Dead delight that Ben has dropped in to a few shows recently, thus proving his immaculate pedigree once again as if he needed to. He's a skilled artist who seems more relaxed than ever and producing delightful melodies, thoughtful lyrics and some brilliant picking.

Thank you Songkick for notifying me of Ben Ottwell at the Louisiana. This is my fourth time seeing him perform. Gomez and 3 times at the Louisiana.

His performance is magic. One of the best. Of course his voice is extraordinary but also his guitar playing. Was this the best? All have been fabulous. His music is sublime. I loved the news songs and so enjoyed listening to the old favourites. Particularly red dress and T lady. Thank you Bennand thank you Songkick. I am seeing so many of the artist I love thanks to you. Sadly I missed out on Nick Mulvey at the Thekla. Sold out I will be quicker next time. Looking forward to Leif Volbeck. Cheers!

Julie x

Ben Ottewell is one of my musical heroes. I saw Gomez three times in 2018 and loved every single concert. Seeing Ben on his own was a different experience but every bit as thrilling.
THAT VOICE - OH! Suit you Sir!
And his guitar skills!
Honestly, it was all I could do to keep my inner fan girl from being outed. Okay, maybe she did anyway - but so did my other half who was beside himself waiting for Tijuana Lady...
And then he graciously hung around afterwards, chatting and signing. He's a decent guy with an outstanding gift. I will always take every opportunity to see him perform.

Have I seen Ben Ottewell live? Ooh about 5 times on his own, and 8 times with his bandmates.
And believe me, I will again at any opportunity!
Phenomenal guitar skills, and oohhh man, that voice!
His songs are beautiful and soulful, interesting and uplifting.
And through it all, he's so relaxed and personable and funny. Just as with a Gomez gig, you feel like he/they are just jamming, and enjoying themselves, and YOU'RE allowed to hang out and enjoy it with them.
Seriously, these nights make life better.

4th time we've seen Ben in Sheffield and the best. His voice was frighteningly good and the guitar playing was off the chart. Love the Greystones as a venue and it suits Ben so well. Seeing him again, as part of Gomez in Nottingham, but hope he comes back to the Greystones again next year. I would watch him over and over and over....well you get the point.

Ben Ottowell is a gem. It always surprises me that he, and Gomez, are not more well known here in California. It seems the same select group of people see him when he comes to visit. I recognized many faces. Ben sounded amazing last night! His new stuff was really great.

Top drawer!
Acoustic solo with a real kick. Amazing vocalist, great choice of tunes, witty off the cuff banter.
Great venue too; intimate and friendly, inclusive.
Support Artist made an impact too.
All good, well played one and all!

Phenomenal performance by Ben last night. Each song was excellent. Great venue as well. Awesome vibe. I saw him with Gomez in LA in 2012 and his solo material is just as interesting and enjoyable to listen to.

Was really good to see him again as I was working away at the time
He played old and new songs would definitely recommend to see him again
Hope he plays Manchester soon
Mike Ellaby