Stiff Little Fingers - 22.03.2024 - Manchester Academy

Credit for this page goes to: John Gilman

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Glen Matlock, punk rock royalty, captivated the audience from the get-go, infusing early energy into the crowd. Seamlessly transitioning into a tight rock groove, the band flawlessly weaved tracks from their 2023 album “Consequences Coming” with standout covers like a rocked-up rendition of KD Lang’s “Constant Craving” and the nostalgic “Burning Sounds” from Glen’s time in ‘Rich Kids.’ The atmosphere ignited when they erupted into the timeless classic “Pretty Vacant,” concluding with a lively rendition of “Head on a Stick.”

As the venue filled, the palpable energy grew, showcasing a diverse age range—a heartwarming sight at any SLF gig, with young enthusiasts mingling among the seasoned punks at the front. With the lights dimming and “Go for It” resonating through the PA system, the crowd joined in unison, setting the stage for an electrifying performance. Dispelling any notion of easing into the set, they launched straight into “Suspect Device,” igniting a bouncing pit. Jake’s vocals remained impeccable despite earlier mentions of a sore throat on social media. Hits like “State of Emergency,” “Fly the Flag,” and “At the Edge” breezed by, accompanied by a stellar cover of John Hurley’s “Love of the Common People.”

As the band hit their stride with a rare rendition of “Get a Life,” Jake shared anecdotes, offering glimpses into his Belfast upbringing and relocation to London. The audience joyously bounced around, embodying the inclusive spirit where hate finds no home. Inspired by The Clash, they delivered a blistering rendition of “Strummerville,” reaffirming their love for Manchester before a thunderous exit following “Gotta Getaway.”

Returning for a two-song encore, they paid homage to The Specials with “Doesn’t Make It Alright” before culminating in the fan-favorite anthem “Alternative Ulster.”

Stiff Little Fingers continues to reign as one of the premier live acts from the classic punk era, see you next March they say, hell yeah

Setlists:
Glen Matlock:

       1.      Won’t Put the Brakes On
       2.      Consequences Coming
       3.      Burning Sounds (Rich Kids)
       4.      Magic Carpet Ride
       5.      Who’s Side Are You On
       6.      Constant Craving (KD Lang)
       7.      Blank Generation (Richard Hell & The Voivoids)
       8.      Can’t Be Myself With You
       9.      Pretty Vacant (Sex Pistols)
       10.     Head on a Stick

Stiff Little Fingers:

       1.      Suspect Device
       2.      State of Emergency
       3.      Fly the Flag
       4.      Hate Has No Home Here
       5.      At the Edge
       6.      Silver Lining
       7.      Love of the Common People (Paul Young/John Hurley)
       8.      Just Fade Away
       9.      Last Train From the Wasteland
       10.     Roots, Radicals, Rockers and Reggae (Bunny Wailer)
       11.     Empty Sky
       12.     Wasted Life
       13.     Get a Life
       14.     Strummerville
       15.     Nobody’s Hero
       16.     Tin Soldiers
       17.     Gotta Getaway

Encore:

       1.      Doesn’t Make It Alright (The Specials)
       2.      Alternative Ulster


John A Gilman