An Electrifying Night of 90’s nostalgia with the  Inspiral Carpets at the Tivoli, Buckley, North Wales 15 June 2023

 

 

WORDS MATTY BEZ / IMAGES DESH KAPUR

 

 

On a warm and electric night, the Tivoli Theatre in Buckley,  was pulsating with anticipation as fans eagerly waited for the legendary Inspiral Carpets, a band that played a significant role in the iconic Manchester (Madchester) music scene. The atmosphere was charged with nostalgia, as the band prepared to take the audience on a thrilling, no-holds-barred journey through their influential discography.

Before Inspiral Carpets took the stage, the audience was treated to a high-octane performance by support band, The Bartells. Their infectious tunes and stage presence quickly won over the crowd, setting the perfect tone for the main event. The Bartells showed their talent and made a lot of new friends on the way.

 

 

As soon as the first chords of “Joe” rang out from Inspiral Carpets, it was clear that they hadn’t lost their edge. The band’s energy was relentless, and the crowd was instantly swept up in a frenzy of singing. The setlist was a masterful mix of their greatest hits and hidden treasures, delighting both die-hard fans and newcomers alike.

The band’s friendship was undeniable, and their passion for their music was evident in every note. Stephen Holt’s raw, powerful vocals were perfectly complemented by the skilful musicianship of messers Graham Lambert, Clint Boon, Oscar Boon and Kev Clark, creating an intense and captivating performance. The stage lighting and visuals added an extra layer of Madchester intensity.

One of the standout moments of the night was  “This Is How It Feels.” The audience was visibly moved, with many fans pumping their fists in the air and belting out the lyrics with unbridled passion. It was a powerful moment that showcased the band’s ability to connect with their audience on a deeply emotional level

Throughout the night, Inspiral Carpets engaged with the crowd, sharing wild stories and anecdotes from their time on the road and their experiences in the Manchester scene. This personal touch made the concert feel like an intimate gathering of friends, united by their love for the music. 

As the night drew to a close, the band expressed their gratitude to their fans for their unwavering support over the years. The final encore left the audience on a high note, with everyone in the Tivoli Theatre feeling a sense of unity and camaraderie.

In conclusion, Inspiral Carpets’ performance at the Tivoli Theatre, along with the energetic opening act The Bartells, was a great night. The small venue, charged atmosphere, nostalgic tunes, and the band’s undeniable talent combined to create something special. For those who were fortunate enough to attend, it was a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and evoke cherished memories.

 

SET LIST

1/ JOE

2/ SHE COMES IN THE FALL

3/ THIS IS HOW IT FEELS

4/ TWO WORLDS COLLIDE

5/ LET YOU DOWN

6 CARAVAN

7/ FIND OUT WHY

8/ DIRECTING TRAFFICK

9/ KEEP THE CIRCLE AROUND

10/ I WANT YOU

11/ DRAGGING ME DOWN ENCORE

12/ 96 TEARS

13/ SATURN 5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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