Richard Ashcroft

Another gig and this time it was off to Audley End house on the outskirts of Saffron Walden in Essex and on the banks of the river Cam. Only my second visit but its becoming one of my favourite venues. Hammy picked Neil and myself up at 1pm and we headed for lunch at The Chestnut Tree Farm pub before the hours drive to the venue. An afternoon and evening sat in our camping chairs, supping a few beers and enjoying live music. It’s what Saturday’s were made for especially as all those there are like minded folk out for a good time. A fine example of this is the lady called Erin who took a photo of us whilst we were enjoying “The Drugs Don’t Work” you can find it in the photo gallery below.

You can read more about the house and its history here:- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley_End_House

Tom Meighan

I didn’t know a lot about Meighan other than what I’d read in the press. Kasabian have never really been on my radar and I only know of Serge (their other singer) because he scored a wonder goal on Soccer Am several years ago. I knew one or two songs and was eagerly awaiting his version of “I Predict a Riot” before Hammy informed me that was by Kaiser Chiefs. Whoops. Musically they were very good but Meighan’s stage persona was a little off. Arrogance or failure to comprehend he’s now second support rather than headliner? Not sure. All I know is I don’t like him.

Ocean Colour Scene

Like many others, I suppose my knowledge of Ocean Colour Scene covers a few latter singles and their second album, Mosley Shoals, and its follow-up, Marchin’ Already. Thankfully, the majority of the set featured songs from those albums. They kicked off with a bang, showing off their musical prowess and getting the audience hyped up for what was to come with “The Riverboat Song,” often used by Chris Evans on both his Radio 1 show and the epitome of lad culture TV, “TFI Friday.” Steve and Simon showcased their instrumental skills with a range of guitars and harmonicas, while the rhythm section provided the perfect foundation for the band’s infectious sound. Their set came to a close with “The Day We Caught the Train,” leaving the audience buzzing with nostalgia and joy, and pumped for what was about to follow.

Ashcroft confidently took the stage exuding charisma and charm. Regarded as a true music icon, he kicked off his performance with “Hold On” from his solo album “These People,”. The crowd erupted with excitement as he delved into classics like “Space In Time” and “Sonnet” from The Verve’s “Urban Hymns.” Ashcroft’s powerful performance of “Music Is Power” from “Keys To The World” mesmerized us all with his voice sounding as good today as it did back in the 1990’s. A more intimate moment came with “Weeping Willow,” followed by a breath-taking rendition of “Velvet Morning”. With the audience in his thrall, Ashcroft delivered soulful tunes like “Song For Lovers” and the energetic “Break The Night With Colour.” Special mention goes to guitarist Steve Wyreman, whose exceptional skills had fans buzzing long after the show. The setlist continued to impress with timeless hits such as “Drugs Don’t Work” and “Lucky Man,” earning thunderous applause and many in attendance singing along. The encore was a spectacular finale, with “C’mon People (We’re Making It Now)” leading into the euphoric “Bittersweet Symphony.” Despite some early departures (before Bittersweet!), Richard Ashcroft once again proved his status as a music legend, leaving us eager for more. All hail the king of cool.