How to describe Crippled Black Phoenix for those not familiar with their work....?? Prog Rock? Post Rock ? or just Rock? Well, all three really. In their quieter moments, they are reminiscent of the dreaminess of Pink Floyd and in their full on assault mode, more like Mogwai. Which is just fine by me.
On a stinking wet night in Manchester, and competing with an Indie all-dayer (Neds Atomic Dustbin, Cud, Wedding Present) at the larger Academy 1, Crippled Black Phoenix are in town supporting new 2014 album White Light Generator. Although a UK band (apart from Daniel their Swedish vocalist), the play relatively infrequently over here, and seemingly have a larger fanbase over in Europe where they seem to have a bigger appetite for Prog/Post rock or however they are described.
The band is primarily Justin Greaves. His girlfriend was running the merch stand ahead of them being on stage, and Justin came out to pass on a message. "Justin IS Crippled Black Phoenix she proclaimed...! " Justin on stage is just one of the three guitarists creating the wall of sound, accompanied by drums, bass and Daisy on keyboards. I think we even spotted a banjo being used by someone at the side of the stage.
Whilst a relatively small crowd was watching, they (we) were clearly all fans and were fully engaged with the assault on the senses being created over the 2+ hours they were on stage.
The setlist was obviously biased towards the new album but they kicked off with fan favourite Rise Up And Fight....probably the closest thing they have to an anthem. The next 4 songs were from the new album, and bled into each other for the best part of half an hour. They're not really a verse chorus verse 3 minute songs band.
The rest of the night was tracks picked from their previous 7 albums, and from stage front and centre, the musicianship and intensity was amazing. While some gigs can seem to drag, I could have happily listened for another couple of hours. Banter from the band, whilst not frequent, was pleasant and appreciative, and they all seemed to be having a great time too.
At last, I have broken my live CBP virginity, and what a night. It will take something special to shift this from gig of the year. I urge you to check them out.
Keith @kjsmith4082