Mod Revival Legends Return: Purple Hearts and Secret Affair Light Up Band On The Wall – Manchester, UK, January 25th

 

 

WORDS AND IMAGES ISOBEL EVE SCOTT

 

 

The late 1970s and early 1980s saw the emergence of the Mod revival, a cultural movement that brought the sharp style and rebellious energy of the 1960s into a new era. At its heart were bands like Purple Hearts and Secret Affair, two groups that encapsulated the spirit of Mod with their tailored aesthetics, driving rhythms, and defiant lyrics. Purple Hearts, with their punk-infused sound, and Secret Affair, who blended soul influences with power pop, were key players in shaping the sound and ethos of the Mod revival. Both bands not only paid homage to their 1960s predecessors but also influenced a new generation of fans with a modern twist on the classic Mod attitude.

On a freezing Saturday night in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, the energy of that movement was rekindled at the iconic Band On The Wall as both Purple Hearts and Secret Affair took to the stage, celebrating 45 years since the release of their debut albums. The venue, steeped in musical history, was the perfect backdrop for a night of nostalgia, camaraderie, and timeless tunes.

Doors opened at 7:00, and Purple Hearts wasted no time, hitting the stage at 7:15 with a set full of energy and enthusiasm. The band tore through their debut album Beat That!—a landmark of the British Mod revival. Despite the album’s 45-year history, its tracks still felt fresh and invigorating, thanks in large part to the energetic presence of frontman Bob Manton. His dynamic performance—shaking and tossing his tambourine into the air between songs—kept the audience enthralled, while the rest of the band matched his energy with spirited playing. After running through Beat That!, they played a few more crowd-pleasers, wrapping up their set to thunderous applause.

 

 

Next, Secret Affair took the stage. Though initially disbanded in 1982, their 2002 reunion has seen them continue to perform with undiminished passion. Frontman Ian Page, now 64, delivered a commanding performance, even if the band’s energy was more measured compared to the frenetic pace of Purple Hearts. Page’s occasional decision to sit down during the set didn’t detract from the experience; instead, it gave the show a more intimate, reflective vibe. A particular highlight was the saxophone player John O’Neill, who commanded the stage with every solo, drawing cheers from the crowd each time he stepped forward. Like their tourmates, Secret Affair treated the crowd to their entire debut album, Glory Boys, a record synonymous with the Mod revival and still their most well-known work. The songs resonated just as strongly as they did in their heyday, carrying anthemic weight for the devoted fans in attendance.

It’s worth noting that both bands were celebrating the 45th anniversaries of their debut albums—an extraordinary coincidence that underscored the night’s sense of history and nostalgia. For the audience, many of whom had followed these bands from the beginning, it was a rare opportunity to reconnect with the music that had defined their youth.

 

 

The crowd, largely made up of long-time fans, leaned toward the older side, creating a relaxed and almost communal atmosphere. Everyone seemed to know the lyrics by heart, singing along with joy and enthusiasm. This sense of shared nostalgia lent the gig a unique, laid-back vibe that’s becoming increasingly rare at live shows. The night felt less like a typical concert and more like a reunion of kindred spirits, all brought together by their love of the Mod revival’s enduring legacy.

In all, it was an evening that celebrated not just the music, but the history and influence of two bands that helped shape a cultural movement. The icy weather outside was no match for the warmth and camaraderie within Band On The Wall, as Purple Hearts and Secret Affair reminded everyone of the lasting power of Mod and the timeless appeal of great music.

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