Just got back to Manchester, much to the delight of my dog.

After umming and arrrinng all week (I already have Finsbury to attend, plus Castlefield will be on my doorstep), the online hysteria from you lot finally became too much this afternoon. I decided as late as possible to take the plunge and arrange to buy a ticket on the door from someone on Facebook, before driving for two and half hours to the gig. I left at 6pm, giving me just barely enough time to arrive for 8.45pm. Despite a few issues en route such as getting stuck behind tractors I made it and found some street parking very close to the venue.

The band were simply sensational. It was such a confident performance that you felt like they hadn't been away at all, let alone over a decade. They had clearly been rehearsing for some time, and the investment in bits such as the string group (who were fantastic) showed a desire to give something back to the fans and set a precedent of wanting to put on a world-class show. The crowd themselves were playfully lairy and in great spirits, it was a lovely atmosphere in the Spa and later on the streets and in the bars.

For me, due to having the same long drive back to Manchester it would be my first Pulp gig sober, having just a few shandies. I'm glad I've seen them sober for once, and can bank those great memories. I've afforded myself the chance to let my hair down with some vinos at future gigs on the tour this Summer without The Fear of the tour ending and me having only blotchy recollections .

F.E.E.L.I.N.G.C.A.L.L.E.D.L.O.V.E, Weeds, and DYRTFT were the big stand outs tonight. They were great. Whilst anticipating it, I'm chuffed to have witnessed the debut of After You.

I was surprised at no pre-1994 material, but there are plenty more gigs to come, and it made sense to kick things off with a hit-laden.night. The setlist was packed full of big hits but still omitted some (Trees, Help The Aged), a reminder of the quality in depth the band possess. I can't wait to see how they mix it up from here. I anticipate the festivald will have more going on (the Neon lights of 2012 perhaps, and maybe longer sets with more twists.

It's going to be on hell of a Summer.

-- Edited by Barcroft on Saturday 27th of May 2023 03:11:04 AM

Pip wrote:

---

String section! This is gonna be amazing.

---

 As soon as I saw them settling in, I thought I Spy on Jools Holland which was one of the most astonishing performances ever.