The O2 Academy with support from Baxter Dury
Over the years, Primal Scream gigs, primarily in or around Glasgow or Edinburgh, have always been in our diary, one of the key musical events in any year. In truth though, there have been gigs, for whatever reason, when the anticipation and expectation has exceeded what was delivered by the band. Do we sometimes demand far too much of our musical heroes in this respect?
On Saturday night at the second of two sold out shows at the O2 Academy, the anticipation and expectation remained high and, on this occasion, the band more than delivered, with a spectacular set of songs spanning their whole career, combined with great musicianship and full on audience participation.
With a recent album to promote, Come Ahead, it was little surprise to find eight tracks lifted to the live stage. While the album itself is more laid back and less rock focused, played live, there was an energy and enthusiasm to the songs that ensured the tempo of the night, bookended by opener Don’t Fight It, Feel It and closing song Rocks never dropped.
In reaching into their extensive back catalogue, delivering amongst others ‘Screamadelica’ classics that have long been staples of their live performances, the home town crowd were witness to one of the classic Primal Scream shows.
Having finished playing songs from Come Ahead, the band motored into fifth gear as they motored to end of the gig playing some of their long-established crowd pleasers, “Loaded”, “Swastika Eyes”, “Movin’ on Up”, “Country Girl”, “Melancholy Man” “Come Together” and “Rocks”.
Bobby Gillespie looked completely at ease with his singing, leading a band that sounded tighter than ever in an exceptional performance.
The chemistry, the energy, the sheer joy of performance—it was all there, reiterating why Primal Scream remain one of the most vital live acts in the UK.
Support Act Baxter Dury
Baxter Dury has been refining his music style since the early 2000s, with his debut album ‘Len Parrot’s Memorial Lift’ (2002), which introduced his impassive vocal delivery and intelligent imaginative lyrics.
Over the years, his albums have evolved, incorporating synthesisers, magnetic bass lines, with a mix of pleasing vocals allied to a spoken-word style that is captivating.
Baxter’s live performances can be summed up as intense, with a touch of theatrics, humour and dance moves that are enthralling.
As a support act, it set the tone for an evening with the headliners that will live long on the memory.
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