It’s been some time since I’ve been to a co-headline tour where the bands were actually co-headlining and split their time equal. Tonight sees The Wildhearts and Backyard Babies play Cardiff’s Tramshed.
But first we have CKY, a band that dwindled away for some years before recently returning and have come back yet another member down. They play as a two piece with guitarist Chad taking over main vocal duties. Although somewhat sceptical at first the duo somehow pull it off. Despite being on early they’re lucky their die-hard fans are committed enough to get down before they start and kick off some CKY chants. The front row is beaming with CKY merch as does Chad whose band branded socks and guitar doesn’t go a miss. It’s an odd choice for opener and a clear line breaks the room into those who know them and those who haven’t a clue. It’s a peculiar feeling watching them, almost reminiscent of coming down early to catch the local band on first and it’s clearly appreciated by the band.
Next sees Swedish rockers Backyard Babies really glam it up but before they take to the stage the band huddle on the side – a sight usually left for behind doors. It’s pleasant to see a band that have been going since ’89 still committed to playing live and still friends. Not too familiar with their sound it doesn’t take long to see how they became popular and even made it onto Guitar Hero III. This band is as old as me and honestly, they’re really putting the young ones to shame. There’s no sign of slowing down and an attitude to constantly please. A twang of classic rock, punk and a show to match – you can easily see why these guys are co-headliners. It’s just a shame the crowd doesn’t quite match their enthusiasm as singer Nicke sets a new record for how many times you can say the word “Cardiff’ in between songs. They end the set by taking the time to appreciate the crowd with fist bumps and thanks.
I’ve heard a lot about The Wildhearts and with lead singer Ginger a constant feature in my Twitter feed regarding recent politics and music scene topics it’s somewhat shameful I’m only just catching them live for the first time. The band released their first new album in ten years titled ‘Renaissance Men’ back in May 2019 and following an anniversary tour back in 2018 this feels like an important tour for the band.
Just like CKY fans, The Wildhearts fans are a committed bunch and never fail to show. Punks of all ages have packed out Cardiff’s Tramshed. Ginger’s banter between songs takes the edge off and sets a friendly tone for the evening, especially for a cold Monday night in Wales. They keep the setlist varied, only slipping in a couple new tracks but even then the room doesn’t disappoint. Fans continued to cheer and sing along no matter what. The band fuel each other on stage and keep the rock ’n roll flowing throughout the set. I can’t imagine how sweaty a lot of those punks are feeling right now in a sea of denim jackets.
The night has felt like a success, maybe not as crazy as other shows like London but the crowd came, they were engrossed, they cheered and bought the merch to match. Hopefully we can expect some more dates in the future and a bit more of a flowing future for the band.
7/10
Setlist:
Everyone
Diagnosis
Vanilla Radio
Caffeine Bomb
Let ‘em Go
The Revolution Will Be Televised
TV Tan
Top of the World
Dislocated
Sick of Drugs
My Kinda Movie
I Wanna Go Where The People Go
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My Baby is a Headlock
Love U ’til I Don’t
