Steve Nieve at Knitting Factory (01-18-1989)

On January 18th, 1989, Steve Nieve played at The Knitting Factory. Mostly known for his work as a member of Elvis Costello’s backing band The Attractions, Nieve also released two solo albums in the 1980s, including Keyboard Jungle in 1983, a record that featured a combination of classical and ersatz film scores delivered from his beloved Steinway piano. He released his second album, Playboy, in 1987, which consisted of solo acoustic piano renditions of rock songs by David Bowie, 10cc, The Specials, X, and others, as well as original compositions. On this night at the Knitting Factory, Nieve played an entire piano solo set - just him and his keys!

Fun fact, Nieve’s actual surname is Nason. He received his musical moniker "Nieve" (pronounced "naïve") while on the Attractions' first tour for Stiff Records. It was bestowed by tourmate Ian Dury who had been astonished by Nieve's innocent query, "What's a groupie?” Before that, he had been using the stage name "Steve A'dore" (a pun on stevedore).

Prior to its current location in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, The Knitting Factory was located at 74 Leonard Street in TriBeca. When the venue opened in 1987, it was located at 47 East Houston Street, near CBGB and within walking distance of The Bottom Line.