This week, Peru hosted the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum – APEC and leaders from 21 countries were in Lima, including the presidents of the United States and China. Security was increased throughout the city and educational activities and some jobs became virtual. In the midst of all this activity, the band Travis arrived in Lima for the third time as part of their “Raze the Bar” 2024 tour. Since their arrival at the Lima airport one day before their show, the British band demonstrated all their charisma and humility. They took time to take photos, sign autographs, and hug their fans who received them with great affection. At the hotel, they did the same thing again despite the security measures for the aforementioned event. The fans showered them with gifts, and they happily thanked them. They even talked to the media and gave many interviews, which was surprising because not many bands have that attitude.
The concert organized by Move Concerts Peru was scheduled at Arena 1, a well-known venue located on the seashore in the San Miguel district. The artist chosen to open the show was the Peruvian artist Daniel F. who gave a semi-acoustic presentation that was very well received by the public. Unfortunately, we still did not have the facilities to take photos. At 9:15 p.m. Francis Healy and company appeared on stage to the joy of almost four thousand fans who gathered once again to see their favorite band.
Travis is a British alternative rock band from Glasgow, Scotland, which appeared in the mid-90s, has twice won album of the year at the Brit Awards, and is considered the band that paved the way for other British bands like Coldplay and Keane (who is coming to Peru next week). His most recent album L.A. Times is the protagonist of the tour that brought them to South America and the song “Bus” was chosen to open the night, then four more songs would come including “Raze the Bar” which gives the title to the tour. These new songs merged perfectly with the classic songs and the public showed that they already knew them despite having been released less than two months ago.
In a show of almost two hours and 22 songs, Travis reviewed his musical career that began with Good Feeling, his debut album released in 1997. Two were the songs chosen from this first album: “I love you anyways” and “Good Feeling.” which were sung by the entire audience. At times Fran Healy, the vocalist, communicated with the public in an affectionate way, showing his joy at returning to Peru. “Sorry for not speaking your language. At least I’m good at playing guitar. That is our universal language” he said amidst the applause of his fans, at another time he would say “Thank you for buying your ticket for this show. Travis is yours.”
All the band’s hits were present: “Side”, “Closer”, “Sing” which is very popular here in Peru, “Gaslight” and “Naked in New York” with Healy standing on a chair were sung at the top of their lungs by the fans. After “Turn” the band would disappear from the stage for a few seconds.
After a brief moment of rest, the band appeared on stage again to perform a cover of Britney Spears, ‘ popular “Baby One More Time” in an acoustic format that sounded spectacular, then we would all celebrate bassist Dougie Payne’s birthday with the song “ Happy Birthday To You”, as an anecdote it is fair to mention that it is the second time that Payne celebrates his birthday at a show in Peru. Then the four members of the band would perform together “Flowers in the window” which was chanted by all the attendees who would continue singing “Selfish Jean” and of course the inevitable “Why does it always rain on me” in charge of closing a show cataloged by the fans themselves as very emotional and intimate. At the time of sending this review, the band is performing in Mexico and then continuing their tour of the United Kingdom.
Band:
Francis Healy – Vocals, Guitars
Douglas Payne – Bass
Andy Dunlop – Guitars, Keyboards
Neil Primrose – Drums
Setlist:
1- Bus
2- Driftwood
3- Love Will Come Through
4- Alive
5- I Love You Anyways
6- Good Feeling
7- Butterflies
8- Writing to Reach You
9- Side
10- Closer
11- Sing
12- Re-Offender
13- Raze the Bar
14- Gaslight
15- Naked in New York City
16- Turn
Encore:
17- …Baby One More Time (Britney Spears cover)
18- Happy Birthday to You (Mildred J. Hill & Patty Hill cover) (Unplugged, dedicated to Dougie Payne)
19- Flowers in the Window (Unplugged)
20- My Eyes
21- Selfish Jean
22- Why Does It Always Rain on Me?
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I’m a photographer with extensive experience working for national and international media. I’m also a passionate photography educator with extensive experience working with students of different ages. I love Heavy Metal music and I began shooting concerts in 1992. Concert Photography is my passion. I’m based in Perú but willing to travel anywhere.
