Was this morning ritual the secret behind Squeeze's long running success? Still in pyjamas, they both reached for the guitars. Take Me I'm Yours the familiar opening number from the set. This was possibly the most relaxed start to a gig ever witnessed. Glenn and Chris then took turns to play solo; whilst the other disappeared to change into a smart lounge suit, complete with a pair of sensible shoes.
In between songs, a microphone was passed around to various members of the audience to ask questions; by the same guy selling the merchandise at the back of the chapel. Most questions started the same way: "I've loved you "X" amount of years..." It was clear that the audience were made up of longtime fans. The venue was superb. The hot chocolate with marshmallows that I consumed at the half time interval was the greatest hot chocolate I've ever tasted. Indeed, the church proved to be a perfect venue, especialy when you hear the surround sound of audience voices singing every word to songs like Pulling Mussels (From a Shell) and Is This Love?
Beautiful versions of Tempted and Points Of View saw Glenn Tilbrook step more central on the stage to sit and play the keys. Somehow, Glenn Tilbrook has managed to hang onto that incredibly unique and warm vocal style; he is still able to hit those high notes in Black Coffee In Bed. Difford singing much more deeply, but alongside Tilbrook; creating that trademark Squeeze sound.
Glenn's hair, long and floppy, fluttered in the breeze created by the electric cooling fans to his left. Chris, on the other hand, complete with a smart pair of glasses, rocked back and forward on his acoustic guitar next to an upright heater. This was a stunning set; and a privilege to watch and listen to one of the greatest partnerships in rock and roll history. The smiles from the crowd reflected back in the faces of Difford and Tilbrook. As the final bars to Goodbye Girl sounded out, and the applause rang loudly; it dawned on me that they had indeed brought the house down.
