Returning to Rock City after more than 30 years, The Breeders proved they've lost none of their dynamism. The show attracted old and new fans alike, and LeftLion was keen to get in on the action...
7:20 and a warm welcome was given to feminist punk band Big Joanie. It was lovely to see a full crowd for the support act. Within the first two songs they managed to create a good rapport with the crowd, recognising fans from their previous gigs at JT Soar. Big Joanie commiserated on hearing the devastating news that the big Sue Ryder had shut down, a key staple of Hockley.
One highlight of their set was the energy of bass player Estella Adeyeri whose passionate performance lit up the stage almost as much as her smile. She was supported by the amazing 90s inspired sounds coming from the guitars, although the vocals were more difficult to hear. There was definitely something out of balance with the audio as I could barely make out the words Stephanie Phillips was singing.
After the great performance from Big Joanie the crew flooded the stage to change equipment always a great cabaret) and the crowd flooded to the bar to refresh their beers to make sure that there was no reason to leave during the performance. As time went on the crowd got gradually more packed and excited in anticipation of The Breeders. This would be their first gig in Nottingham since 1993, when they played with Urge Overkill. It was lovely to see a mixed crowd of fans from the 90s as well as some new younger fans. From a glance it appeared to be parents chaperoning their children but as soon as they saw a glimpse of Kim Deal it was apparent it was quite the opposite.
The first few chords of Saints and the crowd was alive, buzzing with energy and love, which was seen and returned by the band. I have been to a fair few gigs in my time but never before have I seen a band who were just so happy to be there on stage playing music with their friends. This made for such an enjoyable show.
It couldn't be a Breeders gig without some amazing bass, which Josephine Wiggs performed perfectly, most notably the first few chords of Cannonball. All the shoes were on the dance floor. With what we were being treated to I would have been disappointed if they were not...
This was followed by that great track Drivin’ 9, which only led to swaying and emotions as any good acoustic performance should. They had three more tracks before I witnessed the loudest applause and pleadings for an encore that has ever been recorded. Even writing this the next morning I have trouble hearing the radio! But they deserved nothing less after such a gig.
It was wonderful seeing people in their forties and fifties dancing like it was still 1993, and sharing it with the next generation, passing on the baton.
The Breeders performed at Rock City on 28th June 2024, with support from Big Joanie.
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