I got myself a ticket for Kiefer’s London gig ages ago with eager anticipation and excitement at seeing this Hollywood star perform. I missed him last time on his tour due to some unforeseen rail nonsense and so was determined to be there. Plus there was the added potential thrill of seeing Ash Wilson playing with Sutherland. I’d previously seen Ash when I photographed him playing one of his last gigs with The Wilson Brothers at The Tuesday Night Music Club in Coulsdon, as well as having seen Ash also supporting Sari Schorr on a previous London date, so this gig had a special, almost personal resonance for me.

What I didn't know tonight though was that I was also going to be lucky enough to witness the fine, tight playing of fellow Wilson brother from another mother, Roger Innis, playing bass once again on stage alongside Ash, as well as of course Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor Sutherland and his fine fellow musicians. Unfortunately, I did not get to say hello to either Ash or Roger this evening, but not only was this a special pleasure to be able to photograph them, but also I felt a resultant pride in the fact that two of our finest UK guitarists were part of Kiefer’s 'Love Will Bring You Home 2026 European Tour'.

Indeed, Sutherland is a super fine musician, having also forged a remarkable music career in his own right, topping UK Americana and Country charts and performing sold out shows worldwide with his raw, story-telling songs. Tonight, the sharp acoustics and visual appeal of The Union Chapel suited Kiefer’s show, duly generating a silence amongst the agog audience on all levels. A perfectionist in sound and style, and with superb apparent ease, he extensively showcased his fourth Album 'Grey', due out on Friday 29th May.

I loved the intelligent lyrics and varied musicality throughout, of which this impressive set included the wonderful 'Come Back Down', the deserved homage to the hardworking USA land heroes, 'American Farmer', 'Goodbye California', as well as his ode to the cellphone free and past time sentimentality of 'Simpler Time'. Indeed, I really enjoyed and was enchanted by Sutherland’s skilled singing, playing and mesmerising set, that also included 'Chasing The Rain', 'See You On The Other Side' and 'Down In A Hole', all of which I similarly adored.

Tonight Kiefer was warm and engaging, as well as even humble with his audience. There was almost a strange sacred mysticism in Sutherland’s music. Especially in his brown quasi puritanical attire, playing in this marvellous musical space which is still used as a functioning church. Indeed, Kiefer was the star preacher - delivering his sermon of original music with dedication and sensitivity to a delighted congregation, which crossed Americana, Country Blue Grass and Harder Rock. Sutherland deserves every success. A most memorable night!

Also a special shout out to the likeable Irish Indie Folk singer and guitarist, Colin Andrew, who was thrilled to open for Sutherland with a melodic, thoughtful, electric acoustic set. Including 'Not So Innocent', 'Jurassic' and 'Go Lassie Go', Colin did also have some help from his friend and guest Mike Hogan on at least one number. An enjoyable opener.

Review, photos and video: Denise Lester