Manchester’s O2 Apollo Theatre can sometimes feel at odds with its surroundings. Existing on the outskirts of town in an area that punters rarely visit otherwise, it’s a bit out-on-a-limb when placed alongside newer haunts like The Albert Hall, Gorilla or Now Wave venture Yes. Obviously when it comes to musical history and importance, the legacy of the Apollo is undoubtedly without question. However with a growing number of more accessible central spots and exciting non-traditional spaces, it can sometimes feel a little, dare we say, past it.
At least, that’s what we thought. Turns out all the Apollo needs is the right act and the place is given a fresh lease on life and one that’s almost impossible to replicate. Case in point: Nothing But Thieves’ recent one-night-stand. The epic Essex five-piece arrived in our neck of the woods following an exhaustive festival season that saw them play to growing crowds all over the world. In fact, it was more than just a busy summer. As frontman and vocal powerhouse Conor Mason points out early, the band have been touring almost constantly for the past four years and are eagerly awaiting some time off. Not that you can tell. Tonight’s storming 90 minute set showcases a band that’s not only firing on all cylinders – but eager for more.
Don’t be fooled by the simplistic stage set up. Their basic zig-zagged drum riser and amp stage decoration is lifted by an eye-popping light show that not only manages to keep up with the band’s larger-than-life sound but actually elevates it to a much grander scale. Perfectly mixed and effortlessly brought to life, Nothing But Thieves perform with the quiet confidence of a stadium headlining act that’s somehow yet to capitalise on its full potential. It’s a rare sight – and one that’s glimpsed in the band’s ability to juggle chaotic walls of prestige rock with delicately stripped back moments like those featured in the furious ballets of hit tracks “Particles” and “Amsterdam”. Both emerge as highlights from tonight’s crowd-pleasing journey, one that rewards both die-hard fans and casual listeners.
Despite their gruelling tour schedule no corners are cut – and eager fans are quick to return the favor. Both back catalogue cuts and new EP tracks are welcomed with open arms and frequent mosh pits as the venue’s airy standing area is brought to life. Throw all of these elements together and the importance of Manchester Apollo becomes so apparent you wonder how you ever forgot it in the first place. Dive bars may offer intimacy and arenas a precisely polished show – but it’s only in mid-level spaces where you’re likely to find a ‘lightning in a bottle’ experience. Pretty soon Nothing But Thieves will get their well deserved break and remerge as the festival headliners they’re clearly destined to be – but ticket holders this week will be pushed to forget their experience catching them before they were a household name. It may be off the beaten track – but its within this niche that Manchester Apollo feels right at home.
Words by Simon Bland (@SiTweetsToo).
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