By Paula Smith, Rock At Night Bristol
Review: Liam Gallagher with Villanelle – Cardiff Utilita Arena – June 3, 2024
Amidst a sea of fervent fans, Cardiff Utilita Arena transformed into a sanctuary of rock ‘n’ roll as Liam Gallagher, an iconic voice of British music in the 90’s, took to the stage for the highly anticipated “Definitely Maybe” 30th anniversary tour.
With an aura of nostalgia and a surge of raw energy, the crowd is incredibly excited as they wait for their rock ’n’ roll icon to take to the stage. The Arena is absolutely packed out and having seen Liam here once before, I know that tonight will be a special night indeed.
The lights dimmed as the enormous video screens played historical clips of Liam from the 90’s expressing his passion for music and wanting Oasis to be the biggest band in the world. The huge crowd in the arena are now erupting into a symphony of cheers as they wait for their icon.
Then the unmistakable figure of Liam Gallagher emerges onto the stage, exuding his trademark swagger and confidence and the crowd go wild. He opens with the anthemic “Rock ‘n’ Roll Star.” Gallagher immediately commands the attention of everyone in attendance, his raspy vocals cutting through the air with razor-sharp precision.
Backed by his incredible band that perfectly complemented his brash yet melodic vocal style, Gallagher delved into a sonic journey through Oasis’s illustrious career.
“Columbia” was next up with its unmistakable guitar feedback and huge sounding power chords. “Shakermaker” came next and was shortly followed by “Up in the sky” and “Digsy’s Dinner. Gallagher is now working the crowd, standing hands behind his back with his trademark stance, breaking out the tambourine to accent the rhythmic sections of these great songs.
Yes, this is classic Liam Gallagher and thus far I am not disappointed with the way this is going, far from it actually.
“Bring It On Down” and “Cloudburst” came next which is an older Oasis song that I had never heard before, but its still a classic sounding Oasis track none the less.
“I Will Believe” and “Half the World Away” came next with Liam announcing “I am dedicating this song to my little brother, who is still playing hard to get”, with an almost hopeful feeling in his voice that signified to me that maybe one day, the brothers will be back on stage together once again.
The came the acoustic guitar driven D’Yer Wanna Be a Spaceman”, with the backing singers helping to keep time in the intro with their shakers. “Fade Away” came next which ignited the crowd sing-alongs, while deeper cuts like “Lock All the Doors” and “Its Good to Be Free” showcased the versatility of Oasis as a band.
Then came “Whatever” and “Cigarettes and Alcohol”, which then led to the final track of the night. Liam shouted “thanks for coming out..especially on a Monday and this is our last track…’Married with Children.’ ”
The atmosphere in the crowd was electric with Liam marching around the stage enticing the crowd to sing the vocal lines with him, by this time the crowd are singing every word right back at him. As the end came Liam raises his hands and shouts “Thank you very much, Cardiff” as he swiftly leaves the stage without even looking back at the crowd once.
Throughout the performance, Gallagher’s stage presence was magnetic, his banter with the audience a mix of irreverent charm and genuine gratitude. Whether he was delivering scathing quips or sharing heartfelt anecdotes, Gallagher’s connection with his fans is undeniable.
Visually, the concert was a spectacle to behold too, with dynamic lighting and visuals that enhanced the sonic experience without overshadowing the music itself The spinning globe and palm trees on stage was also a really nice touch.
Gallagher returns to the stage for the Encore…and what an Encore this turned out to be. “Supersonic”, “Slide Away” and “Live Forever” with the Beatles classic “I am the Walrus” as the grand finale. Wow! This was indeed an extremely well put together and performed set.
As the final chords reverberated through the Cardiff Arena and the one and only Liam Gallagher bid farewell to his adoring fans. There was a sense of collective euphoria in the air and Liam still has an incredibly strong fanbase. In conclusion, Liam Gallagher’s 2024 “Definitely Maybe” tour was not just a concert, but a testament to the enduring legacy of a true rock icon. With his unmistakable voice and unapologetic swagger, Liam Gallagher proved once again that he is a force to be reckoned with.
I do have to say after seeing Liam for the second time with him and his band showcasing the great wealth of catchy and memorable songs Oasis had, I will certainly be revisiting the Oasis releases with a greatly renewed interest.
Gallagher proved once again why he remains a beacon of rock authenticity and that Oasis had a powerful collection of material to their name, and who were indeed one of the biggest bands on the planet in the 90’s.
I do have a strong feeling that the brothers will reunite sooner rather than later…but for the time being Liam Gallagher and his band have done a tremendous job bringing the Oasis songs onto the stage for this incredible night of music and attitude. Well done Liam, you do indeed rock! 10 out for 10 for me.
PHOTO GALLERY
SOCIAL MEDIA
” I think it’s very important to surround yourself with like-minded people who are as dedicated as you are,and if you work hard and develop your craft over time, great things will follow”
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