Went to see Uriah Heep on Monday. First time since 1977 when John Lawton (R.I.P.) was their singer. (Loved his voice)
Wasn't sure what to expect, and the thought of an acoustic 45 mins set to start didn't fill me with optimism ...
My doubts were soon put to rest, after a video opened proceedings showing pics and clips of the band's history (It is their 50th anniversary tour) and they band ambled on to take their places ....stage was set at the front, with a screen in front of the main area for later. A small drum kit, keyboard and electric bass ... the only actual 'acoustic' bit was Mick Box's guitars, but the bassist sat on a stool, so that counts ;-)
This set allowed them to play some pretty deep cuts, like Come Away Melinda (with it's frighteningly still relevant anti war lyrics) from the first album. Of course the big acoustic 'hit' The Wizard got an airing too. The band seemed in great spirits, and I enjoyed it far more than expected.
Following a 25 mins interval, we took our (Row F in front of Box) seats for the main part. Prior to it, they showed many videos congratulating the band on reaching 50 years, from a wide range of other bands and artists, from contemporaries like Alice Cooper, Deep Purple, Brian May, to some you wouldn't expect, like Midge Ure singing their praises.
(I have to mention a cracking line from Francis Rossi, who after congratulating them, said something along the lines of see you all soon .... here, or if not maybe on 'the other side ... it won't be long!' Which got a huge laugh.
A very explosive start with pyro, dry ice etc heralded them onstage, and feck me they still have some energy! Bassist Davey Rimmer is clearly the youngest at 53, but singer Bernie Shaw gets around the stage like a man even younger. His voice suits the band perfectly. Mick Box is the same as always ... constantly smiling, jovial and vey much in charge of 'his' band now. A shout out to drummer Russ Gilbrook , a powerhouse in the style of Bonham and Roger Taylor. Felt knackered just watching him.
Have seen a few 'heritage' bands in recent years, many are clearly going through the motions(yesyou Deep Purple for one) but not the 'Heep.
All the hits were rolled out, (including Hanging Tree from my favourite Firefly album) from July Morning to Gypsy and all you could wish for (well I would have loved to hear the Return To Fantasy title track, but you can't have everything) ending of course with a rousing Easy Livin'.
Have been to the Bridgewater a few times (Frank Sinatra Jr, Tony Bennett and Glenn Miller Orchestra with my old man, and JulianClary ... not with my old man) but this was my first rock gig there. It really echoed being in my teens at gigs in the Free Trade Hall, the auditorium even looks very similar in design. Top venue.
