After taking the 90s British music scene by storm, indie rock band James have transfixed fans for decades, with no intention of slowing down. Formed in 1982, the band have had 4 top 10 hits on the UK singles chart and 9 top 10 placing albums on UK albums chart, including the much-loved hits ‘She’s a Star’, ‘Laid’, and ‘Sit Down’. Despite a break-up in 2001, James have made a legendary comeback, touring since 2007, making new music and igniting stages around the world with their sheer talent.
After a captivating performance at the Ovo Hydro in Glasgow last night, it is clear to see that this band has done anything but ‘Sit Down’.
Opening Band
Alternative rock band Doves opened the gig, perfectly setting the tone for the rest of the night with impeccable energy and exciting the crowd with fan favourite songs like ‘Black And White Town’ and ‘There Goes The Fear’.
Taking the stage
Introducing the band, a psychedelic, sci-fi style monologue was accompanied by mesmerising graphics on the big screens, engaging audiences until James took the stage with their electric presence.
Opening with their hit ‘Tomorrow‘, the combination of two drum kits, multiple singers, and three guitarists is proof that James is one of the most multi-talented bands ever. It’s rare during concerts to see artists put down their guitars to pick up a violin or a pair of drumsticks, but this is the norm for James every couple of songs. Chloe Alper and Debbie Knox-Hewson particularly stood out, both drumming, singing, playing guitars and tambourines at different points which gave a fresher sound and added more layers to classic tunes.
Tim Booth’s Magnetic Energy
It is difficult to imagine any 66-year-old putting the same immense energy into gigs as they did 40 years ago, but not Tim Booth. Fans were hypnotised by his cool moves and spectacular stage presence, but also his authenticity. Booth kept it real, admitting when he made a “fuck-up” and cracking jokes about things going wrong.
An admirable aspect of Tim’s honesty were the tracks ‘Greenpeace’ and ‘PS’, which he dedicated to the disastrous events occurring in America currently. There is nothing more refreshing than artists who, regardless of fame, clearly care about what’s going on in the world.
Audience Interaction
While standing on stage and playing a set is the expected for artists, James break away from this normality as Tim stated the band is “afraid of nothing happening on stage”. Excitement and adrenaline filled the stadium as Booth stood on barricades, dancing with fans and even a security guard while the rest of the band hyped up the crowd.
A moment in particular that audiences will never forget was Booth’s venture to the second level during ‘Say Something’, somehow managing to sing perfectly running up the Hydro’s deadly stairs and greeting fans in the seating areas. However, I think we all felt a little jealous of the lady on row C who Tim serenaded during ‘She’s A Star’.
The set was complete with the iconic track ‘Getting Away With It’ prompting an epic stage dive from Booth. But the night couldn’t end there. Before you could say encore, James were back on, performing their hit ‘Sometimes‘ and ending the night with ‘Laid’, leading to a full arena sing along.
Verdict
While a lot of artists lose their spark after performing consecutively for a long time, James are nowhere close. Their infectious spirit and dynamic presence will impress audiences for years to come.
Luckily, if you missed this gig, tickets are still available for more dates of James’ UK and Ireland tour via Ticketmaster.
Featured image credit: Maisie Nisbet
