The increasingly liberal use of the word ‘genius’ in music really annoys me. It seems all that’s required to qualify for that once sacred status is a solid album, a successful tour across the country’s O2 Academies, and an endorsement from a Gallagher brother. However, there are instances when the use of this term is not only welcomed, but absolutely necessary – for example, when talking about Paul Weller, one of the finest musical exports the UK has ever produced.
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With a number one album in each of the last five decades, you’d perhaps forgive Paul if his fire dampened slightly at the thought of yet another tour: this time to promote 66, his 17th solo studio album. But that is not the cloth from which he is cut, as the 1,500 fans in attendance at Newport’s ICC can attest.
This was a truly special evening from start to finish, and one which felt like a celebration of Weller’s career, albeit with a couple of surprising additions to the set. With the ICC Wales seated throughout, more theatre than rock venue, I did wonder if the setlist would reflect that – Paul, though, put the idea of a quiet night to bed immediately, kicking off with the rocking Rip The Pages Up, a track from the 22 Dreams album sessions.
There were also outings for classic solo tracks, such as All The Pictures On The Wall, Stanley Road, and Hung Up. Weller has always been a lover of collaboration in his music, and the kinship and respect between he and his incredible band was clear to see. Led by Weller’s long-time friend and guitarist Steve Cradock, they were locked tight all evening long, mutual admiration borne out through wry smiles and encouraging nods.
The show culminated with The Style Council’s anti-war anthem (and my favourite Weller-penned track of all time) My Ever Changing Moods, before coming to a close with Jam hit and British classic, Town Called Malice. The lads could have played for another three hours and there would still be fans begging for one last encore. There’s only one word to describe that kind of longevity and quality: genius.
Paul Weller, ICC Wales, Newport, Sat 6 Apr
words ELLIOT OAKLEY photos JON HERRON
