The Blockheads, Robin 2, Bilston - review and pictures

It may have been near freezing temperatures outside, but the funk, rock and punk outfit certainly warmed things up with a lively set which saw the Robin 2 heaving with fans.

And though the band has been in the industry for more than 40 years, the crowd was made up of a great range of ages; each of them dancing and singing along to the band’s array of hits.

Kicking off their 90-minute set with 1977 song Wake Up and Make Love To Me, The Blockheads sounded great, with a clean, powerful sound which lasted all evening.

Brilliant renditions of numbers old and new came thick and fast, with the band barely coming up for air between songs; much to fans’ delight.

Among these were Express Yourself, Inbetweenies, What A Waste, Clever Trevor and I Wanna Be Straight.

“This song was written when everyone could afford to get taxis everywhere and get wiped out - all on 30 bob,” grinned frontman Derek The Draw, as the band launched into one of their best-known hits Sex and Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Reasons To Be Cheerful, Part 3 came next - which saw the group and the fans alike bound around to the 1979 chart-topper.

Founding bassist Norman Watt-Roy gave his all as ever, with a passionate performance absolutely key to the funky sound the band is so renowned for.

“Thanks very much, we’ve had a smashing night,” beamed Norman, as the fans below whooped and cheered in agreement.

Iconic number one hit Hit Me With Your With Your Rhythm Stick came next, before the band left briefly ahead of the encore featuring Blockheads.

Despite a career spanning four decades, The Blockheads certainly show no signs of slowing - and long may the witty, unique, talented group continue.