Who better to go and see on a Saturday night but Frank Turner. A man who has consistently helped articulate the difficulties we face in society in a poetic and uplifting way. With passion and occasionally with real venom, put people in their place through his lyrics and vocal delivery. They say misery loves company and the room tonight is packed, full of people waiting for one of Britain’s finest story tellers to charm us with his wit, wisdom and help put the world too right. There is a real energy tonight at KK’s Steel Mill in Wolverhampton. A twenty-six song set list that spans his career. We get to marvel at a man front and centre of stage that still has the passion and belief in not only himself and his songs, but music itself. He clearly loves his job and is aware of how lucky he is. Photosynthesis and The Road are delivered with energy which is mirrored by the crowd here tonight. Then we come to the political part. It can never be said that Frank Turner is shy on giving his opinion.
In the past he has however decided to retire ‘Thatcher f*c*ed the kids’ from his set. Now the anger and frustration at the government is once again at the forefront of his mind. “Blame the folks who sold the future for the highest bid” Is as apt for this government as it was to hers. “We need to get this government out”. Simple, Direct and Accurate.
Talking of which, the backing The Sleeping Souls who feature alongside him/Frank tonight could be described in similar fashion, dressed in matching white and black, give the solid foundation, tight steady and unnerving, allowing Frank to do his thing. A lovely and poignant moment as we remember Frightened Rabbit, with the beautiful and tender ‘A Wave Across A Bay.’ Standout lyric “There must have been a moment, Just before you hit the water, when you were filled with a sense of peace and understanding” shows how wonderful Franks song writing is, capturing even the worst moments in life in a delicate and lush way.
Tonight’s show ends with ‘Four Simple Words,’ a punk song calling out scenesters and hipsters a like, it is a pop punk party song, all high energy and fun. A wonderful finish to a brilliant gig.
