The Proclaimers, Birmingham Symphony Hall, review
When you realise it’s 35 years since Charlie and Craig first formed this loud and proud Scottish band, you wouldn’t begrudge them taking the opportunity to slow up a bit.
But they are having none of it. Recently returned from touring Canada, they are in the middle of a UK tour which is not only sold out in many venues but sees the duo turning up the volume, speed and intensity even more.
No schmoozing patter and time-wasting, just song after song with hardly a pause inbetween.
They gave us more than 20 of their timeless creations, including such classics as Letter from America, I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles), Let’s get Married and I’m on my Way, which was the prompt for us to stand up, punch the air and party.
The more recent Spinning around in the Air and Streets of Edinburgh were thoroughly loved and had whole swathes of the word-perfect audience joining in.
The night saw a multi-generational turn-out, with dedications read out for both a 60th and 18th birthday, both parties surely appreciating songs with heart, opinion, and passion - not to mention the talents of drummer Clive Jenner who was mesmerising.
And, however many times I hear the vocal talents of our favourite twins I will never tire of hearing their beautiful accents crystal clear above even the most crashing guitar.
A three-song encore brought both the pacy show to an end, leaving many of us feeling that we had been in some sort of magical time machine for 90 minutes. And very happy.
