Skip to content

Stereo MCs

Maybe I was just expecting too much? I really should’ve stayed at home.

by Steve Plunkett · Photo: artist
Stereo MCs

artist

In the early nineties the Stereo MC’s were one of the biggest, coolest, most happening and successful bands around, they even had their own dance movement of a kind.
The rave scene was at its peak back then and they fitted in rather quite seamlessly with what was happening. A brilliant live band to boot that managed to capture that particular vibe in the studio too, a quite remarkable feat by any standard.
They were quite frankly the hottest ticket in Town. How things have changed!
Tonight’s support slot is filled by a DJ much to the bemusement of the audience! Is that what a crowd of over fifties really want to get them in the groove some thirty plus years later?
In the nineties, it, a Stereo MC’s gig would’ve seen the floor filled, shaking and raving of that there is no doubt. But tonight, I can see just two people occasionally shaking some sort of shapes!
Eventually the main act does come on, and it immediately sounds rather quite dated, with lead singer Rob Birch profusely spreading the love and vibes around the old TV studio as he tries to get some movement and momentum going. But it’s all feeling rather forced like he is just trying way too hard! Some of the crowd are also trying to relive their youth but are sadly looking like they have entered a very embarrassing Mum and Dad DISCO dancing competition. It’s a good job their kids are not here watching, that’s all I can say!
Oh dear, I am sorry, but this just isn’t working for me! It’s all rather cringey!
Sure, their best tracks like Connected, Step It Up and Ground Level help to restore a little bit of satisfaction, but I am unfortunately, following tonight’s show feeling ever so disconnected and lacking inspiration!
Maybe some bands just don’t stand the test of time and all that’s left from that moment in time is a bit of nostalgia?
Maybe I was just expecting too much? I really should’ve stayed at home.
Elevated I am not.

More Live Music Reviews

Bug Club

Patrick Widdess words and pic

John Robb

David Vass pic courtesy of Norwich Arts Centre

Toots And The Maytals

Natalie O'Dell (photo supplied by venue)

Dma's

Steve Plunkett (photo supplied by venue)

Gary Crosby

Eve Wellings pic courtesy of the N&N festival

Jasimine.4.T

Keiran Raza - pic courtesy of the festival

More by Steve Plunkett

Live Music

Daniel Land

Steve Plunkett
Live Music

$Ebbuku

Steve Plunkett
Live Music

The Bluetones

Steve Plunkett
Live Music

Kathryn Joseph

Steve Plunkett
Live Music

Edwyn Collins

Steve Plunkett
Live Music

Skids

Steve Plunkett