When bands have been around as long as Status Quo have, they can become an easy target for mockery – they only play three chords for God’s sake! – but the fact that they have been playing for as long as they have should also command respect. 10 years together would be impressive, but a tour to celebrate your 40th anniversary is one hell of an achievement.
Taking the stage with little fuss and a very simple set-up of Marshalls and some video screens, there was never any doubt that everyone in the LG Arena was in for a good time, because if the Quo have learned anything in the last 40 years it is how to put on a great show. Most of the crowd will have seen them before, but that still didn’t prevent a huge cheer as the band launched into opener “Caroline”, and that set the tone for the evening; one of pure musical enjoyment for band and crowd alike.
Tonight’s set list was nigh-on perfect for hardcore fans and Quo virgins like myself alike – recognisable songs like “The Wanderer” and “Pictures of Matchstick Men” mixed with cuts like “Mean Girl”, “Softer Ride” and the more progressively tinged “Beginning of the End” all sounded brilliant, and showcased just why Status Quo are one of Britain’s greatest rock bands. Unsurprisingly, Quo’s rhythm section is tighter than a Scottish duck’s arse, but there are many other facets of a Quo performance that rarely get highlighted; both Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt have superb live voices and are gifted guitar players, their interaction with each other and the crowd is perfectly natural, and (laugh though you may) their selection of songs is incredibly varied. Each song has its own character, and their set turns into a rock and roll master class.
The songs kept coming thick and fast with hardly any time to catch your breathe between them, or indeed with hardly any time for some crowd interaction – probably the only negative point of the whole show because when Rossi did chat and introduce a number, he was witty, light hearted and very interesting. But then again, if he’d been allowed to talk before every song he’d probably still be on stage now. Anyway, the gig rolled on, building to a fantastic climax of “Down Down”, “Whatever You Want” and “Rockin’ All Over the World” – the kind of three-song ending that any rock fan in the world would at least tap their feet to.
The band did return for an encore of “Burning Bridges”, which had the whole room pogo-ing and “Bye Bye Johnny”, which had the whole room waving the band goodnight. It was a fantastic end to a brilliant gig. Yes, they only have three chords, but can any other British band make the twelve bar blues sound this rocking? I think not. Happy 40th Quo, long may you continue.
Review & Photos – Dave Musson
