Ian Brown - (Gig Review) Manchester Adores You Mr Brown
Ian Brown returns to Manchester to perform songs from his new album “The World Is Yours” and is welcomed into the bosom of the manchester masses.
The massive venue is packed to the rafters with eager fans 90% of which are men with a scattering of females here and there. Suddenly the stage is drenched in beautiful blue light and the modest figure of Ian Brown appears met by ear-splitting cheers from the crowd who are now bursting at the seams. “How ya doin Manchester? have you got your got your dancing shoes? Ian exclaims and is met with chants of “Manchester, Manchester, Manchester”. Its straight in with the new material and a beautiful rendition of “Sister Rose” the rocky beat has the audience instantly jigging around and shaking their heads methodically.
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Next up a heartfelt “Keep What You Got” from the album “Solarized” which has the audience swaying and singing the poignant lyrics with emotion and vigour. The atmosphere is electric as the crowd try to squeeze closer to the stage I feel like I’m squashed in like a sardine. Ian commands the whole of the stage performing to the entire audience, looking relaxed and confident waving to people in the crowd. The beat begins and everyone immediately recognizes the classic “My Star” the ground starts shaking as people start bouncing all around me and I can feel the intensity is starting to build. “If your too cool for school do some shoulder shuffling or shimmying, its all about body motion. Go on have a practice its simple” Ian provokes the audience smiling dryly you can tell he has a wicked sense of humour under that cool exterior. “Lovebug” gets everyone in the party spirit as they take his advice and starts to dance around deliriously loosening up their inhibitions.
Ian Brown performs a mix of songs from the new album “The Wolrd is Yours” along with songs from his entire back catalogue. The new songs are met with enthuasiasm and high spirits however, they are never going to get the same reaction as “I am The Resurrection” which recieves an overwhelming response. Its like Christmas has come early!, a frenzy of activity ensues as people look at each other in shock and delight. I find myself getting wrapped up in the moment and I start singing along as well!!! its pure gold. The guitar riffs sound fresh and dynamic and the beat is so intoxicating, I can hardly believe the song is 17 years old. Before Ian has the chance to depart the stage chants of “Ian Brown” are pelted at the stage accompanied by clapping and stomping of feet.
Mr Brown returns with some friends, martial arts experts including a member of the “Shaolin Temple Monks”. The guys put on an impressive display and add to the multi cultural flavour of the show. “If you’ve got any complaints about the show please see these guys after” Ian cheekily adds before they depart. The dirty beats and heady bass of “Golden Gaze” whips the crowd up into a frenzy, hand clapping and hip swaying is in order. Just when you think it can’t get any better “I wana be adored” fills the air with the most beautiful and seductive sounds. The bass line teasing the audience as it gradually builds until is bursts in a crash of symbols. An ecstatic army of fans leap around joyfully singing at the tops of their voices in a state of pure euphoria and before they have chance to come down they are treated to a unique version of “Fools Gold” with the lyrics of “The World Is Yours”. Funky dance moves are bought out from the closet and side to side head swaying is obligatory. He finishes the set with the chart topping “Fear” and the fans give their hero a rapturous applause as he chants back to them “Manchester, Manchester,Manchester” demonstrating mutual respect.
Photo above - Andy Rouke (former bass player with Them Smiths)
Ian Browns music has changed considerably over the years but what has stayed constistant is his ability to reach out to people, touching them with the music and challenging them with his lyrics. He has always been proud of his roots and has represented the working class person and continues to do so with empowering songs like “The World Is Yours”. He frequently pushes the boundaries stretching himself creatively as well as intellectually. Utilizing musicians from all over the world experimenting with different instruments and sounds, as well as singing in different languages (check out myspace for a japanese version of “Sister Rose”). He has remained genuine and true to his fans and the Manchester fans have remained loyal and committed to him their “godlike genius”.
Photos by www.paulreadphotography.com
More photos check out www.flickr.com
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