LIVE REVIEW: The Futureheads, Du Blonde, New Century, Manchester, 24/02/2025
Back in the sweat infested, alcohol-fuelled indie scene of the mid-2000’s, The Futureheads were at the forefront alongside The Killers, Bloc Party and many others who populated the scene at the time. Tonight the Geordie outfit continue their UK headline tour at Manchester’s New Century Hall.
A female fronted outfit are present on stage when we arrive at the venue. The indie rhythm is instantly recognisable from the beginning of the set. Under the name Du Blonde, the project is the brainchild of Beth Houghton, who self-produces all the records. Houghton is keen make an impression on the somewhat lacklustre crowd early on, by bouncing around with vigorous energy on-stage. Having recently completed a UK headline tour of their own, confidence is clearly high and Du Blonde are delighted to be playing such a large venue. As vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Beth Houghton explains, “It’s great to play venues this big, we don’t usually get to play these types of venues, so thanks to The Futureheads for taking us on tour and to you for coming down early.” Some enjoyable early evening entertainment with fantastic harmonies and toe-tapping melodies pave the way for this evening’s headliners. 6/10
An older dynamic is present at New Century Hall, perhaps a sign that the audience have followed The Futureheads from their inception back in 2004. The usual entrance music and theatrical element are missing as The Futureheads enter on stage to just an applause from the audience.
Begining of The Twist gets proceedings underway, with the crisp and bass driven sound vibrating around the venue. Already, during the first few numbers tonight, it becomes obvious why The Futureheads have remained in the industry for so long, the harmonies are near perfect and the performance has a relaxed nature that only a band with such experience can offer. The first address of the night comes from lead vocalist Ross Millard, “Thank you for coming out tonight, it’s great to be here. This song is about the importance of making your mother proud” all spoken on his thick Geordie tones. Before playing Girl On The Radio.
The jangling indie rhythms The Futureheads have become known over the years are present on Decent Days and Nights, Skip To The End, and Good Night Out. However, despite the band putting on a good show thus far, the crowd are slightly lacklustre in their appreciation. Perhaps down to the perils of playing a midweek concert.
Nonetheless, the plaudits have to go to a sublime cover of Richard Thompson’s Beeswing. Sang entirely acapella by all members, it showcased the true talent of the band and rightly received the greatest applause of the night.Concluding the night the only way they know how, Kate Bushes’ Hounds of Love brings the evening to a fitting close. The audience need no invitation to join in.
Tonight was a lesson on how maintain twenty plus years in the industry and still enjoy every second. Along with some great music thrown in along the way.
8/10
Written by: Ben Gilligan
