Oasis, Sheffield Arena, October 11th
Oasis took to the Sheffield Arena stage on October 11th
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Wednesday, 15, Oct 2008 09:44
inthenews.co.uk's Rob Wheatley is won over by Liam's swagger and the classic cuts as the Gallaghers tour the UK.
To start at the very beginning, I hope never to hear from support band Twisted Wheel ever again.
I have never, ever heard a band as incoherent, unpracticed and just completely poor as this one. It's obvious they take their influences from the Jam and Pete Doherty's band. I wasn't the only one who didn't like them, as they got booed offstage after we'd been told repeatedly that we were a rubbish crowd. All that I can say about Twisted Wheel is that they really are a (Baby)shambles.
Thankfully, there was a fast turnaround, and 15 minutes later, Oasis opened with Rock and Roll Star to get the crowd going. This didn't last, however as the crowd lagged anytime the new album was played. It's an interesting conundrum that the people who are going to pay £50 to watch Oasis in concert are probably not those who have heard the new album and wanted to check the band out. If anything, these were fans like me - people who loved Definitely Maybe, Morning Glory and The Masterplan, but since then have been a bit underwhelmed. Even smashes such as Lyla got lukewarm responses.
The swagger of Liam was still on form - it is testament to his undeniable on-stage chemistry that when it was Noel's turn to sing, Liam had to leave. He is the last of the true frontmen, even if some claim Johnny Borrell is better. Upsettingly, Noel has handed lead guitar responsibilities over and seems less passionate about his music.
What is undeniable is that Oasis had their fantastic live band moments - the triumvirate of Wonderwall, Champagne Supernova and Don't Look Back In Anger complimented the greatest hits perfectly, and they were CD perfect. I've read other reviews that claim that Oasis aren't brilliant live, but the fans loved it. I can't disagree with that at all. They certainly lacked the spark that made them one of the best live bands in the world, but you won't hear too many complaints from me.
Rob Wheatley