My final gig of the year on Saturday night - White Lies in the shed at Wembley Arena. First shock was that I drove there and it only took 1hr 10 minutes from the depths of Essex, I was prepared to be parked on the North Circular in Christmas traffic! 

First up on stage was The Chevin: I loved them, very similar to Boxer Rebellion’s first album. Upbeat and with a good on stage presence, definitely a good live band, their opening song lasted about 10 minutes and I never tired of it. Their debut EP is here.  

 

Duke Spirit: loud and in your face with a dynamic lead singer. this band have been around far longer then White Lies, I guess will less hit songs, I wonder if that plays on a band’s mind?

They sure do rock though!   

 

White Lies: I was kind of worried that they wouldn't manage to pack Wembley and before they came on there were plenty of seats. However, the place soon filled up was packed, especially the floor area (I was seated for a change!).

 

It was nice seeing a lead singer come out and have a grin as wide as his face as he said "Aways wanted to say 'Hello Wembley'". You could see he was genuinely happy - as if he felt they had "made it". I know its not on the Coldplay "made it" level but great to see a guy not arrogant and happy with what they had achieved so far.

 

Music wise - pretty much as expected but, with the big change that they finally managed to realise they can get ‘audience participation’ which they did to a great effect to "Death", "Lose my Life" and "Bigger than Us" when the place was jumping (very unlike Wembley where I have seen muted audiences far too often). Perhaps the festive spirit lifted everyone! Overall, a fun night and, a great last gig of the year. Next time though - I'm standing!   

 

Gavin

 

Set List

 

1.Strangers

2.To Lose My Life

3.Is Love  

4.Holy Ghost  

5.E.S.T.  

6.Streetlights  

7.The Price Of Love  

8.Taxidermy  

9.Farewell To The Fairground   

10.From The Stars  

11.A Place To Hide

12.Come Down  

13.Peace & Quiet  

14.Death

 

Encore:

15.Unfinished Business  

16.The Power & The Glory