Live Review

The Futureheads – Royal Northern College of Music

• 17th Apr 2012

There is nothing more civilised than a seated gig, but a seated one in a Music college, where the acoustics are perfect for a concept tour makes for a very exciting evening. After announcements over the tannoy that this evening’s performance ‘Futurehead’ will start in 3 minutes, it was no surprise to see a packed out auditorium, and after the release of their latest a cappella album ‘Rant’, a not-so surprisingly empty looking stage.

Opening with a pitch perfect ‘Beeswing’ from their latest album, the night started with a strange atmosphere, it all seemed a bit calm for a gig, like we were at the theatre not watching a favourite band, but the music was exceptional, following on from ‘The Keeper’ all four members picked up some sort of stringed acoustic instrument, from mandolins to acoustic basses and started on the comic gags. At least they know that if after 11 years they decide to call it a day in music, they could all try their hands at being stand-up comedians, from one line puns and perfect word play they’d do quite well!

The much anticipated Kelis cover came, and then they started on some of their older records, with a new acoustic twist. Out came a cello and they played possibly the best version of News and Tributes I’ve ever heard, very fitting being in Manchester, the auditorium was deadly silent and it felt as if there were almost tears in the crowd’s eyes. After a couple of minor technical problems, strings breaking and straps falling off, and a treat of a little bit of Led Zepplin on the Mandolin, the atmosphere seemed to warm up, the crowd participation increased and people actually started laughing at the jokes.

Playing through Meet Me Halfway, Old Dun Cow (a personal favourite from the night) they then introduced the support band the Cornshed Sisters and the Northern Boys and Girls Choir to come and sing a few songs with them.Of course, what would any Futureheads show be without the Kate Bush Hounds of Love cover, which, once again, was expertly adapted for a cappella and the use of the crowd.

It was incredible, such a spectacle that I hope they get to recreate at festivals as it was such a treat, really showcasing the talent of each member of the band, not just as a talented instrumentalist but vocally they were all strong, together and perfectly harmonised.