Across the years I’ve mentioned, now and then, that I saw Clannad – the band. Live. “What?” comes the reply. “Did they do that Robin Hood song?” comes the bonus chortle.

Yes they did. And it was amazing.

I’m no huge Clannad fan – but when I arrived in Wellington, a poor student desperate to make myself more broke by spending whatever I could – and then borrowing to spend more – on concert tickets I was open to any and all live-gig experiences. And I’m really glad I went to Clannad. Probably the best live singing I’ve ever heard – and perhaps the very best (and perfect) in a live sound mix.

I’m not sure I’ve even listened to a Clannad album all the way through in the nearly 20 years since I saw this show but I’m glad I got to see them do what they do live. The playing was mesmerising, the arrangements stunning. It was one of my favourite early gig experiences. But I won’t harp on…unlike Clannad…

Stubs is an occasional feature here at Off The Tracks – looking back through the ticket-stub box and remembering how the show went down.