REVIEW – The View, Independent, Sunderland
“The View are on fire” was the cry from the packed-out Independent crowd as the Scottish rockers took to the stage to blast through a set which did little to suggest otherwise.
It’s been two years since they last played the venue and the band have been busy in that time - releasing their third and fourth studio albums in quick succession, bringing a much-welcomed depth and maturity to their shows.
Even before the lights went down there was a sense that something special was to come, with the Saturday night crowd in good spirits thanks to the conveniently designed two-pint glasses being served up at the bar.
Opening with the frantic Grace, Dundee’s finest four had beer flying around from the off before launching into fan’s favourite Wasted Little DJs from their platinum-selling debut album.
Sour Little Sweetie, Underneath the Lights and Wasteland are up next before frontman Kyle Falconer and bassist Kieren Webster swap instruments, allowing Webster to take over vocal duties – screeching through Skag Trendy, Gran’s for Tea and Hole in the Bed.
The sweaty crowd are then given a chance to catch their breath during a few slower tracks – including the impressive Fleetwood Mac-esque Clock and Bunker from their latest album Cheeky For A Reason.
Throughout the band looked to be enjoying themselves as much as their fans – with Falconer’s cheeky grin visible from under his curly mop of hair. A mention should also go to lead guitarist Pete Reilly who made his tricky riffs look easy and shirtless drummer Mo for keeping things going at the back.
Personal favourites Double Yellow Lines and Blondie both got an outing before the big four S’s brought the memorable show to a close.
Same Jeans has many fans divided, due to the possible over-play it received, but went down a treat regardless – with testosterone propelling bodies all over the place during its chaotic outro.
Mass sing-a-longs follow, as fans hold each other aloft on their shoulders during the finale of Superstar Tradesman, Shock Horror and Sunday.
The band wasted no time with an encore and fans took it upon themselves to carry on the singing as the venue emptied with a chorus of Sunderland football chants.
Gigs like this prove why Independent is such an important part of the city and perhaps contractors could bring back The View to tear the roof off again when demolition work begins next year.
Steven Carter
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Weather for Sunderland
Monday 20 May 2013
Today
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Temperature: 9 C to 17 C
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