Music > Live Reviews

Afro Celt Sound System

OPEN

27/10/16

Now, I'll be honest, what I've heard of Afro Celt Sound System in the studio hasn't grabbed me enough to make me buy it. I can't give you song titles or bang on about this album or that album. So, why am I here, then? Because I've been told that they are an amazing spectacle live and I'm intrigued, that's why. 

On paper, this should not work. A mix of Gaelic folk, trad African music and western rock with a dash of 90s dance should fall flat on its jacksy. It should but – crucially - it doesn't. 

Spread over two sets, there are times when this is amazing. The vocalists all have fantastic voices. The musicianship is nothing short of exemplary. Most of the songs are well above my expectations. With up to eleven people on stage at any one time, it is crowded up there but that doesn't stop the showmanship. The band are clearly having a good time, jumping and dancing away and that enthusiasm is infectious. To add to the spectacle, there's an impressive show of lights and projections. 

It isn't wholly great though. There are times when the virtuoso musicianship threatens to overwhelm the songs. In the last song of the first set, the numerous solo spots bring to mind the excesses of 70s prog. The sound isn't the best, with some of the - many - instruments struggling to cut through. That said, I strongly suspect though that I am in a minority of one in this audience given the fervent response from those around me.

Whatever, this is an almost wholly enjoyable way to put my troubles on the back burner and while away the best part of two and a half hours. Whether you like their stuff on disc, whether you even know any of their back catalogue, go and see them if you can. Based on what I'd been told, I had very high expectations and this show very nearly met them.