WORDS AND IMAGES DESH KAPUR
Squeeze, one of the most iconic British bands of the late 20th century, celebrated their 50th anniversary at Venue Cymru in Llandudno on October 21, 2024. Formed in London in 1974 by the songwriting duo of Glenn Tilbrook and Chris Difford, the band quickly became a defining act of the new wave movement with their clever lyricism, catchy melodies, and a unique sound that blended rock, pop, and pub rock. The group’s early lineup famously featured renowned pianist Jools Holland, whose distinctive keyboard style added a jazzy flair to hits like “Cool for Cats” and “Up the Junction.” Holland’s energetic piano playing gave Squeeze’s music an extra layer of sophistication and remains a key element of their sound, even after his departure in the early 1980s.
Squeeze’s current lineup for their 2024 tour includes founding members Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, Stephen Large on keyboards, Simon Hanson on drums, Melvin Duffy on guitar, and Owen Biddle on bass, with Steve Smith on percussion and backing vocals.
Their signature sound—distinctively melodic with clever wordplay—remains as timeless as ever. At Venue Cymru, they delivered a high-energy performance, filled with the catchy hooks and Tilbrook and Difford’s sharp harmonies that made them famous. Songs like “Pulling Mussels (From the Shell)” showcased their ability to combine upbeat tempos with whimsical narratives, while ballads like “Labelled with Love” highlighted their more reflective side, underscoring their versatility. Squeeze’s ability to blend sharp, observational lyrics with catchy pop hooks remains as fresh as ever, Tilbrook’s exceptional guitar work paired with Difford’s charismatic vocals made it a night to remember and the crowd was treated to a masterclass in songwriting
The concert was a perfect balance of nostalgia and celebration, with the band playing fan favorites as well as deeper cuts and new tracks, much to the delight of the packed audience. Squeeze’s influence on generations of musicians was evident, as their polished yet playful sound, rich in British character, resonated with both long-time fans and newer listeners alike
SET LIST
( Here are some songs that Squeeze played on their 50th Anniversary Tour at Venue Cymru)
1/ “Up The Junction”
2/ “Cool For Cats”
3/ “Pulling Mussels (Live)”
4/ “Tempted”
5/ “Black Coffee In Bed”
6/ “Another Nail In My Heart”
7/ “Annie Get Your Gun (Live)”
8/ “Hourglass”
9/ “Goodbye Girl (Live)”
10/ “Is That Love?
11/ Labelled With Love “
FOLLOW SQUEEZE
My life is a soundtrack, i track my life through music, photography is my passion, my escape, my expression. Without both i have pieces missing, thankfully i’m blessed and get to combine both.
Born in Manchester, lived in Australia for 22 years where i was heavily involved in the Australian Music Industry, firstly in bands (Singer) and then managing bands (all original), I moved back to the UK, Wales specifically 10 years ago
