Now, usually Suggsy is backed by six other members of the 80s band; but on this occasion he was backed solely by a pianist on a Grand Piano. This show was all about Suggs and the story of Madness. For any Madness fan, this was a must see. McPherson, wearing a smart grey suit, stood and talked about the rise and fall of the band and his life; he looked like he really enjoyed the night. He did occasionally forget his lines, but this was where he treated us to the One Step Beyond style dance while he got his composure back (akin to the famous album cover stance, right).
The thing that amazed me most was Suggsy's manner in which he addressed the audience and his ability to fill the stage entirely. He was always trying to keep moving, and of course your eye followed him. The audience were hanging onto every word that he said; and I was enraptured. I've heard stories of how Madness got together; but not from the lead singer of the band before. As a fan this was a real privilege.
It was a unique take on his life, how he tries to find his missing father, and without giving too much away, at times it was quite sentimental and emotional. There are various amusing anecdotes, like how the band fooled The Clash into thinking they were policemen, or the story about Madness causing a minor earthquake at their 1992 reunion. It is littered with stories and funny tales how the seven members of the band took on the world. Some stories are mad, (not Madness without a funny story!) and showcase how crazy it may have been in those days.
I must add it is interesting to note how Suggs quickly brushes over the unhappy times in his life. The final years of Madness post keyboardist Mike Barson's departure were only documented by a few words in this show.
It isn't Suggs without songs, and of course he delved into the back catalogue, singing stripped down versions of Baggy Trousers, Shut Up and It Must Be Love. There was also room for Lola and Cecilia, plus a wonderful take on See You Later Alligator (he did sing a version of this on the highly underrated film Take It Or Leave It). The songs were interspersed throughout the show, usually referencing what he was talking about.
A slight criticism from me would be that there wasn't enough songs. I would love to see him try a live version of a forgotten classic like Yesterday's Men or One Better Day with just a piano; as those tracks don't fit in Madness' live sets these days.
However with just the piano to accompany him, the tracks that you do get are quite something to take in. Usually at a Madness gig I'm usually bopping away, so to sit and relax and revel in the joy that these songs bring is absolutely fantastic.
I left the theatre thinking how much I actually idolised Suggs (and Madness) and how much of an impact they have had on me throughout my life. This is a top show, from a top man. Then again, I might be biased. Go and see it!
