Taking to the stage decked out in their trademark flags, British Sea Power’s arrival was heralded by the appearance of their over excited french horn player. Swiftly followed by the band, also augmented by a violin player in a rather elegant gown.
Playing the highlights from their ‘Do You Like Rock Music’ long player, an album which I thought could be difficult to reproduce live. It’s many layers and dynamics could easily become a sonic mush in a live, especially festival based, setting. Thankfully though, the band’s live sound was a big as on record and as clear and paced as the record.
‘No Lucifer’ prompted much instrument swapping, with Hamilton taking lead vocal, leading the crowd in the ‘easy, easy’ chant, a vocal contribution that was made for a festival crowd.
Bonus points too to bassist Hamilton’s flag cape, very smart, making me wonder if there has ever been a Captain Flag? Not quite sure what his powers would be? Never being mistaken for another nationality?
Even breaking out an instrumental, a brave move in front of a festival crowd of casual listeners, the band was on great form if a little shy. A ‘hello’ would’ve been nice.
