Keane Live Review @ Apollo (Manchester) - 19 Oct 2006

Live Review

Just think how many bottles of beer and vodka you could purchase with £80? Well, that's how much eager fans of the Surrey trio were willing to part with outside, to witness what they undoubtedly hope will be the resurrection of fallen cherub; Tom Chaplin. Starting the evening as he means to go on, the relieved and energetic singer gives added impetus to 'Put It Behind You Now', with his vocals slipping into his customary melodious stride as though he has never been knocked off it. This is appreciated by the masses who feed off the rejuvenation. This is followed by first album heavyweights 'Everybody's Changing' and 'We Might As Well Be Strangers', illuminating Tim Rice-Oxley's Midas piano touch and the atmosphere kicks into overdrive.

A set that meanders across two albums of material, sees the early tracks commanding the lion share of the applause. With no sign of exhaustion, the exuberant and garrulous Tom, reminisces on their first gig in this city at the Night & Day, being one of fond memories and declares how far they have come since then. Starting off an acoustic version of 'Your Eyes Open, incorporating a tribute to Coldplay's 'Yellow' (how apt I hear you say!), they draw the crowd closer. Afterwards Mr Chaplin opens up his heart to the audience by way off a poignant admission of group therapy and the strange places he has been along the way. This leads nicely into a heart felt rendition of "The Hamburg Song" which reminds us all of how human we really are after all;

I'd like to bring a little light, I'd like to bring a little light.
To shine a light on your life
To make you feel loved

Almost hypnotically the momentum is built up again, seemingly they can do no wrong and "Crystal Ball" re-injects the place with vigour. Surprisingly, "Bad Dream" that they declared is the "BEST SONG WE HAVE EVER WRITTEN" at this years V Festival, doesn't receive the same reaction than on previous outings. A subdued air bestows the Apollo and the crowd stares on, maybe in bewilderment at how awesome this number really is? With the first set coming to a frenetic end, the crowd find themselves again and rip-roaring performances of "Somewhere Only We Know" and "Is It Any Wonder", has everyone screaming for more. With barely time to regain your senses, "Atlantic" sees them return to the stage and staunch favourites "This Is The Last Time" and "Bedshaped", conclude the 1hr and 40min set. Thus, reaffirming Keane's prowess against the big bands of today and shows that time hasn't withered away any of their appeal.

Written by; Stewart Brookman & Dave Adair

David Adair