UFO
UFO play the Waterfront
It’s hard to believe that UFO formed in 1969 and are still touring and releasing new albums every three years or so. It’s fair to say they don’t get the respect they deserve and are often damned by association with some of the less memorable 80’s metal bands, when in actual fact to their fans they are very much a product of the 70’s. It was three years since they last played in Norwich and having really impressed me last time out I was hoping for more of the same this time round.
Did I get it? Sort of.The turnout was good and the band sounded great as they began the set with one of their lesser known songs We Belong To The Night. Lead singer Phil Mogg had turned 67 the day before but unlike so many older rock vocalists he has been lucky enough to retain his superb singing voice. He’s adapted his style a little but he looked in great shape and his voice had a real soulful edge to it. Original drummer Andy Parker is still a powerhouse behind the kit and as before ace guitarist Vinnie Moore breathes new life into old songs.
The set was a good mix of tracks from their most recent two albums, some deeper cuts from their early 80’s era and a good selection of classics without which no UFO show would be complete. So why did I only sort of enjoy it? I felt the gig had quite a sterile atmosphere to it. I appreciate the fact that it’s an older band playing to an older audience but at times it felt a bit like some of the crowd were playing a really intense game of statues. I’m not expecting a ferocious mosh pit and it’s not like I did much more than vigorously nod my head but really it all just felt a bit tame. Some of these songs we have probably been enjoying for over 30 years and there was plenty of singing along on the choruses but at times I felt for the band looking out at us staring back at them. I’m sure everyone there enjoyed the gig but I think we could have shown the band a bit more love.
I probably would have felt more positive writing this review but last night I saw Adam Ant at the same venue also playing to an older audience, also looking back at the past and yet that gig felt alive, full of life and energy which has made me view my UFO experience less favourably.
So I enjoyed seeing UFO again, but it’s with genuine regret that I say the next time they visit Norwich I’m not sure I’ll be in attendance.
