Johnny Marr, Johnny Marrvelous, Johnny Fuckin’ Marr…whatever name you choose to call the bloke you just know that one of his gigs will perk up your evening regardless of what mood you are in when you enter a venue.
This venue was Sheffield’s Foundry, part of the university and a nice intimate venue for such a big name. I was rather excited to get out of Manchester as this was the closest I’ve had to a holiday in years. Sheffield is one cool city and should certainly be on music fans radars, especially with Tramlines on the Horizon and Rock and Roll Circus.
Marr arrived slightly late to the stage which I did not realise until some impatient fans started shouting ‘Come on’. Slightly unnecessary considering it was a matter of minutes. The venue was rammed, however despite it being the warmest day on record, there was air-con…so exiting the venue was unpleasant as it was still hotter than the sun despite it being late.
Anyway, Marr was on form, (when is he not?) with his uber talented team of musicians to play through some of his finest work. Initially there was little interaction between songs, Marr getting a massive cheer every time he stepped away from the mic to entertain the crowd with intricate guitar solos. A venue like this and being so close to the man himself was quite a treat, as I have usually seen him play in much larger venues.
We were treated to a mix of tracks, and at track two a massive cheer emitted from the crowd at the first Smiths song was played out ‘Stop Me If You Think You’ve Heard This One Before’. Track ten was a highlight, one of my favourite songs and always an emotional moment, ‘Please Please Please’ has undoubtedly one of the most hauntingly beautiful guitar solos in musical history. It is simple but it hits you even harder when played live.
The encore was a two track special with a cover of Iggy Pop’s ‘Passenger’ which suited Marr’s vocals perfectly and then of course the song to end all sets, ‘There is a Light That Never Goes Out’. So thank you Mr Marr for another exceptional evening of music, see you next time!
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