The last time that my dad saw Echo and the Bunnymen, the classic rock band from Liverpool, was in his own student days in the 80s, so it was already special to take him along as my +1 to the O2 Academy gig. The night did not disappoint. As definitely one of the youngest in the crowd, it felt great to tell all those that asked that no, my dad had not dragged me along but I had actually brought him. With an expectant crowd, largely comprised of die-hard fans over the age of 50, a disproportionately high percentage wearing leather jackets, and following a fairly standard but uninspiring DJ set, Ian McCulloch and Will Sergeant took to the stage with four other supporting musicians, for a tour through some of their greatest hits.  

Completely back lit and sporting his signature shades so that we never really got a look at his face, McCulloch proved that his unique vocals did not disappoint in person. Interspersed amongst their classic post-punk 80s tunes were a few covers, including a particularly great version of the Bunnymen’s ‘Nothing Lasts Forever’ crossed with Lou Reed’s ‘Walk on the Wild Side,’ but paying homage to their scouse roots, singing ‘Take a Walk on the Merseyside.’

McCulloch did make a few attempts to engage the crowd, but I think it said more about his poor communication skills than the vintage of his fans that they were unsuccessful. An attempt at a joke fell very flat, and I was left feeling that perhaps he would have been better off to let the music to do the talking. That was definitely the weak point of an otherwise great performance. I was also disappointed that the rest of the band, including the only other original member, guitarist Sergeant, did not feature more in the set or receive much credit, but then perhaps the music was really all that the band needed to showcase, and their fans undoubtedly appreciated it, with enthusiasm levels varying from appreciative head nodding to an attempt at a mosh pit near the front.

Despite all this, as they left the stage following ‘Lips Like Sugar’, there was a frenzy of excitement and several other concert-goers informed me not to worry, there would be two encores, they had saved the best until last. Coming out again with ‘The Cutter’ had the crowd singing along, arms in the air, and then ‘The Killing Moon,’ with McCulloch pronouncing it ‘The best song I’ve ever written’ – I don’t think anyone could argue with that. For the second and final encore, they concluded with ‘Ocean Rain,’ a beautiful and more mellow tune to perfectly bring the concert to a close.

Overall, this was a very special and enjoyable evening for my dad and me – Echo and the Bunnymen’s greatest hits were showcased with a great atmosphere, although I did feel as though McCulloch’s not so charismatic performance may be one of the reasons that the band never achieved the heights of fame, despite some undoubtedly brilliant tracks.

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