The Blockheads Defy Age & Mesmerise Manchester
Published
Now I must admit that the thought of seeing The Blockheads without their mentor, the poetic genius who was Mr. Ian Dury, was something of an elephant in the room. Let's just put that to bed right from the start.
There are many bands who have an inspirational leader and follow, but, from the outset, this band have been behind the timeless accompanying rhythms that still excite and enthral, so it was right and proper that they should stay on the road to avoid a second unnecessary musical tragedy.
The Band on the Wall, every bit as good in its new form as it was in the past, with digital sound to boot, was the venue that drew a full house of eager Blockheads looking for a party reminiscent of the old days when Punk music was king. The Band delivered in spades and the mixed audience responded by joining in with all the old favourites and dancing the night away.
With an average age that of a pensioner, musicians of this age are usually Zimmer-frame pushers with rheumatic issues, confined to limited activity. This lot haven't read that script, with Norman Watt-Roy especially, living every note, every word and moving like a demented demon of the dancefloor of a discotheque. I was mesmerised by his relentless and complex rhythms from first note to the last! A true gentleman and a very talented musician, of that there is no doubt.
Chaz Jankel, Norman Watt-Roy and Mick Gallagher, along with the rest of tonight's current ensemble, putting together a beautifully balance set from start to glorious finish. There aren't many bands who can boast a repertoire with enough depth to save “Sweet Gene Vincent”, “Clever Trevor”, “Reasons To Be Cheerful” and “Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick” until the end and still save “Blockheads” for an encore... Not that these were any better than the other classics, “What A Waste”, and “Billericay Dickie”.
If you only go to one more gig this year, catch the Blockheads on this or any future tour for a real treat. They really are a classy bunch and whatever your musical persuasion, you will find something to entertain you. Oh, and don't forget to visit the merchandising stall and get the t-shirt!
To find out more about The Blockheads, click here.
To visit the band’s Facebook Page, click here.
Words by Mark Eastwood
Photos and video credit to Lawrence Taylor
