PAUL WELLER | LIVE REVIEW
Cardiff Castle, Thurs 24 July
The Modfather returned to Wales on another beautiful sunny day in the city. Cardiff was teeming with fans of all ages – well, mainly men in their mid-forties with questionable haircuts, but ones who were all clearly enjoying what the capital has to offer before their idol was welcomed to the stage in the beautiful setting of Cardiff Castle grounds.
The by-now-sweaty Newport indie rockers The Hearts kicked off proceedings whilst most fans were still in the pubs, but they got on with it and did themselves proud with a rousing set. Second on, alt-folk types The Rails, featuring lead singer Kami Thompson (daughter of Richard Thompson), gave an ethereal performance, in glorious sunshine perfect for the occasion.
Weller and crew presently emerged, beginning with Sunflower and looking the consumnate Modboy from that iconic haircut downwards. The eight thousand punters packed into Cardiff Castle erupted.
With such a repertoire in Weller’s catalogue, it was only just that he proceeded to launch into solo favourites, Jam classics and even some Style Council numbers. From The Floorboards Up, Friday Street and Come On; Wake Up The Nation, Fast Car/Slow Traffic and Let’s Go… replete with fans crooning along, Weller’s oeuvre felt like the sound of a generation. The Changingmanand You Do Something To Me (a personal favourite) prompted singalongs and flowing tears.
As the closing chords of A Town Called Malice brought seismic appreciation from the throng, the trip down memory lane came to an end. The crowd left sated and happy, a memorable night having been had by all.
words ANTONIA LEVAY