Entertainment

Royal Blood at the O2 Apollo Manchester review: A headbanger’s paradise

Last night, Royal Blood brought their electrifying performance to Manchester, delivering precisely what their fans had anticipated – an unforgettable evening highlighted by explosive guitar and drum solos.

The duo were forced to cancel their last performance in the city due to covid but for their die-hard supporters it was worth the wait.

The band creating a perfectly orchestrated mix of old and new hits, wielding a mastery of the room’s mood and tempo.

Stepping onto the stage, the band embraced the atmosphere set by the classic Western theme from ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ – priming the audience for the onslaught which awaited them.

After sustaining a prolonged chord the band unleashed the pivotal track from their latest album, ‘Mountains at Midnight,’ setting the Apollo ablaze with raw energy.

The momentum soared even higher as the band followed up with timeless hits from their first two albums, including ‘Come on Over’, ‘Lights Out’ and ‘Troubles Coming’, igniting the crowd with each resounding note.

Their latest album introduced a distinct and fresh style, deviating from the familiar sounds their fans were accustomed to. With mellower tracks like ‘Pull Me Through,’ the atmosphere was enriched, providing a moment for the audience to regroup.

The pause only served to amplify the subsequent songs, ‘Little Monster’ and ‘Loose change’ which then unfolded with unbridled intensity.

Drummer Ben Thatcher astounded the audience with a dazzling drumming spectacle, skilfully employing every component of his 12-picee drum set to create a crescendo of sound and momentum.

As the duo made their comeback from the encore the crowd was fervently craving the classics.

When the band launched into ‘Out of the Black’ the atmosphere exploded with pints of Carlsberg, priced at a hefty £7.40, carelessly flung in every direction.

As the show approached it’s end, only the song that catapulted the band to fame remained and ‘Figure It Out’ certainly lived up to the hype.

Turner, akin to Moses parting the Red Sea, physically divided the crowd, building anticipation for the impending eruption of the mosh pit and ensuing musical frenzy.

For me, the remarkable production value and exceptional sound system at the O2 Apollo greatly enhanced what was already an outstanding performance.

A meticulously orchestrated light show that provided a sensory feast for the eager rock enthusiasts in attendance.

The anticipation for Royal Blood’s return proved entirely worthwhile as their tour carries on across the UK. For any fan, catching their show is an absolute must-see experience.

Photo: Pamona PR

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