There have been many highlights that span the career of Celtic rockers Big Country, supporting the Rolling Stones, playing Knebworth Park, plying their trade to thousands of Russians in Moscow.
Last night saw the rejuvenated combo, comprising of Mike Peters [Vocals and guitar], Bruce Watson [Guitar], Jamie Watson [Guitar], Tony Butler [Bass] and Mark Brzezicki [Drums], perform to a packed audience at the O2 Academy in my hometown, Birmingham.
As a 46 year old I thought the days of sweating at concerts had long passed me by, in fact I was contemplating hanging at the back of the crowd as my days of bopping [frenzied pogoing] were last seen at Milton Keynes Bowl for an AC/DC gig.
Big Country have always given you value for money, be it with their vast catalogue or their concerts.
Last night they proved that you are never too old to rock. From the opening number of "1000 Stars", frontman, Peters, had the crowd eating from the palm of his hand. Bruce Watson took over the role of lead guitar, a role vacated by the untimely death in 2001 of former frontman Stuart Adamson.
Watson, along with his son Jamie, steered the ship throughout the set, a ship that was rocked from side to side by the 2,000 strong crowd.
Classics such as "Harvest Home", "Fields of Fire", "In A Big Country", "Wonderland" and the 'sing-a-long' "Chance" were met with great appreciation. The anthemic "Porrohman" saw Mike Peters join the crowd before being lifted back to the relative safety of the stage.
As a Brummie, I always like to think that Birmingham is the heart of rock. Many bands like the Birmingham audiences as they just let their hair down and go for it. Last night Birmingham did Big Country proud...Big Country did themselves proud.
A 5 star ball-busting performance and one that will, hopefully, stay in the memory for many years to come. I only wish I could see more of them.
Big Country play Liverpool O2 Academy tonight and will be back touring again in April.
Don't miss them!
Fan footage from last night's gig in Birmingham:
Fid
ORDER THE PAPERBACK
'THE EVIDENCE, HOWEVER, IS CLEAR...THE SEROXAT SCANDAL' By Bob Fiddaman
SIGNED COPIES HERE OR UNSIGNED FROM CHIPMUNKA PUBLISHING
2 comments: