Tim Burgess

Best known as the lead singer for the Charlatans, Burgess released his debut solo album ‘I Believe’ was released in 2003, and most recently the album ‘Same Language, Different Worlds’ was released in September, on Burgess’ own label, O Genesis. Both support bands (The Silver Field and Average Sex) are also signed on the label. A freezing cold walk from the car park to the venue (the nice and intimate space at open) proved that my optimistic choice of leather jacket was maybe a little misjudged.
Initially an on-tour DJ replaced the usual playlists, which made a nice change, followed by the first support band, stoner space jazz unit The Silver Field, fronted by vocalist and bassist Coral Rose. Unfortunately for them, their rather unique blend of synth, bass and clarinet was not the most upbeat thing to warm the crowd up, though it did have a certain je ne sais quoi that drew the audience in.
Following a remarkably swift change around, Average Sex leapt onto the stage. Lead singer and natural showman (or maybe show-woman?) Laetitia had frankly enviable energy as she jumped around the stage. With lyrics filled with teenage optimism and quirky rebellion, their enjoyment of their own music was infectious, and while the sense that they were still finding their musical feet was evident, they really have something with the pop punk tunes they bashed out one after one. And really, when they all look so effortlessly cool and comfortable on stage, it was hard not to want to jump along with them.
Burgess entered the stage, with guitarist Sam, bassist Jamie and drummer Finn from Average Sex returning with him. Starting with one from the new album, ‘Oh Men’ Burgess leapt straight into entertaining, filling the stage with enthusiasm and obvious good relationship with the band. After finishing the song, he apologised for struggling with a cold, explaining the fact that we were getting slightly huskier versions of the songs today. Despite this the Lemsip fuelled set continued with great vigour, and Laetitia joined Burgess on stage with complimentary vocals. The set, despite including a couple of Charlatans songs, was refreshingly new, unique and a step away from the recognisable sound of his old band. Burgess’ music seems to be overwhelmingly upbeat, partnering neat little guitar riffs with his recognisable singing voice. And drawing the audience in with the occasional banter with the crowd.
All in all, good music and Burgess’ infectiously boyish grin (from under that recognisable mop of hair) made for what was an enjoyable evening, exceeding my expectations of what I had hoped would be merely good, to something thoroughly enjoyable and memorable.