The Feeling, five “twentysomethings” from Sussex did what they came to do, warming the crowd up nicely for the headline act. They treated the half-filled crowd to tracks “Helicopter” and “Love it when you call” but it was singles “Sewn” and “Fill my little world” that got the crowd singing along. It seems the relentless air-time on Radio One has paid off as their sunshine hooks had everyone swaying along to the chorus.
By the time The Charlatans had graced the stage the room was packed out, banging straight into “NYC” (a new track from their warmly received new album SIMPATICO), presented with a eye catching backdrop of New York City’s skyline. “For your Entertainment” was the second song (undoubtedly the best two tracks on the album). The crowd showed much appreciation for the classic “Telling Stories” and just as everyone was getting down and dirty to “You're so pretty” the fire alarm went off (I kid you not!) and the whole place had to be evacuated!
Outside, after about a 15-20 minute wait, just as the rain began to pour, and everyone was about to spark their third Marlboro Light, the doormen announced re-entrance, but in large groups, in single file. Remembering that most of the crowd are on- the wrong side of twenty, there was much puffing and panting but we got their in the end!
However the atmosphere was electric by the time the band came back on “Jesus Hairdo”, “One to Another”, and (current single) “Blackened Eyes” had everyone jumping in the air. Again, bright tapestry, fitting in with the song (Liverpool skyline, soldiers for “Dead Mans eyes” etc.) made the stage very dazzling. The gig ended with “Sprostron Green”. There wasn’t much interaction with the crowd but it wasn’t needed! Timmy’s mouth Organ and high pitched vocals was all that needed to be heard, my best gig of 2006 so far!
