Canal Street Online Manchester

Buzzcocks at Gorilla

Buzzcocks at Gorilla

Off to Gorilla this evening to see Buzzcocks playing without the much loved frontman Pete Shelley. Just over a year since he died, this is the first tour without him.

Much anticipation of how it's going to feel, hearing the many familiar songs from over the years without his distinctive vocals. Venue getting busy and a general feeling of excitement helping to get us in the mood to be 'Sixteen Again'. Four of us met up tonight, and have loved Buzzcocks since we were spotty teenagers and all their gigs we've been at have had the same effect.

Luckily we caught the support band, Shanghai Treason. Very impressed from the start, energetic performance, great guitar work, good tunes. A banjo and accordion alongside punk style was just great, the audience moving forward quickly when they realised this is something to get involved in. Had a hint of Clash in there at one point, and many were dancing enjoying the set. Just at the end they announced it was their FIRST live gig, we were astounded, they sounded great together. We are definitely keeping an eye out for their next gig. From S Yorkshire. They are on social media, give them a follow a,d get to a gig ASAP.

The audience was, by that time, beautifully primed for the main event. Not disappointed by the Rocky theme entrance with the dimmed lights, loved the drama and responded accordingly.

 'What Do I Get?' Had us singing at the tops of our voices immediately. We were expecting loads of the well known/loved tunes, which we got, but there were songs from albums we hadn't heard for a very long time, plus a new single which was excellent. The whole set was full of masses of energy and fun, on stage and off. Steve Diggle was relaxed and enjoying himself immensely, jumping around and brandishing his guitar in his distinctive style.

The audience absolutely went for it, including a very enthusiastic mosh pit. Lovely to hear them singing the songs back at the band, everyone smiling and on good form.

Some stonking classics in the encore, singing til we were hoarse, Harmony In My Head and Ever Fallen In Love.

Left the venue smiling and vowing to catch them on this tour again before it ends. Brilliant.

Shout out to the lovely bar staff and cloakroom guy. Always a pleasure attending gigs at this great venue.

Published: 11-Jan-2020 (5701)

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