There was definitely an electric tingle in the air before the show; tonight marking the midway point of Guy Garvey's wonderfully curated Meltdown Festival. The rumour mill abuzz with tales of who might be playing along too
Before Connan had even played a note, there were audible yelps, screams and shouts welcoming him. Mockasin was distinctly dressed in a pink beret, and green boots. Opening with the cool as hell Caramel flavoured "Do I Make You Feel Shy?" and the surreal "It's Choade my Dear", the night was alive.
The lead singer gave the audience the nod to dance. Whilst the band (comprising drummer, bassist, guitarist, bongo player) tinkered around on the wonderfully tousled number Faking Jazz Together, a huddle of people began surrounding the centre front of the stage. The huddle became a large melee and movement of bodies, arms and legs, extending across and down the aisles.
The rhythm and tempo is efficacious - allowing the listener to focus on the tinkering charms of Connan - while one almost forgets the various time signatures that are ever present in the background.
Two additional treats were in store to help keep that time signature in check. Dave Okumo of The Invisible firstly was introduced on guitar - and the show took on a funkier twist. Following this was special guest ingredient James Blake; who out of nowhere appeared on the keyboards front right of the action to add extra flavour.
One must say that one cannot cover all what went on this special night. So much happened before the audiences' eyes. The evening certainly went into overdrive once all guests were part of the performance.
A gentle chaos took over proceedings. The version of Forever Dolpin Love was charged with excitement from the close quarters of the spectators. Connan started pacing up and down, guitar in hands, acting as a metronome for the rest of the band. Not surprisingly the track gradually built to such a crescendo and wall of noise, what could possibly top it? A stage invasion? Well, quite!
As guitarist Rory McCarthy (shirtless but with braces) was just starting up Megumi the Milkyway: "Ooh ooh ooh, ooh ooh ee ooh!" a slow surge of people started to climb onto the performing area. Rory took a step back literally; the jam was ongoing while the sea of bodies swelled around them. The intruders danced and swayed until they were politely disinvited and told to leave the stage. Megumi was eventually completed once all were non-stage; and the band left to rapturous unhinged applause.
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About Me
- Rich
- I often think of odd things, then realise I need to write them down. I also never try to make a single person frown.
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