Maxїmo Park are a band who really know how to please their fans, from throwing their clothes off to thrusting their hips around… and this was certainly a gig to remember.
Manchester Academy was overflowing with expectant fans for the Newcastle band and they certainly delivered.
At only five-foot four (and counting) it was just possible to catch the top of Paul Smith’s head and see a glimpse of his hat and his sunglasses with a deer like jump in the air.
The band created a wonderful atmosphere with their incredible stage presence, the members taking it in turns to fling the microphone stands around the stage
Lead singer Smith, thrusted his hips to Hips and Lips which made the audience scream wildly.
Not as loudly as when he flung his blazer off Full Monty style but their fans sure know how to shout.
The overall performance from Maxїmo Park was lively and well-delivered.
The band is made up of some excellent musicians who play well live, which is a feat that can not be said of many bands today.
The high notes were hit and often more technical and elaborate melodies were played on the guitar and piano, giving their older songs an original twist.
Maxїmo Park, not only showing everyone that they know how to play, also showed their love for Manchester.
On playing Lydia, The Ink Will Never Dry the band declared it to be a love letter for Manchester and then followed by playing the song much better than the album recording.
It made it sound more cheery and animated which helped to create the intense and lively atmosphere that surrounded everyone in the audience.
It’s hard not to enthuse about this performance and Maxїmo Park knew just how to please even to the point of saying thank you after every song in their cheeky, Geordie accent.
This being part of what makes them so lovable, fans went away with a glow and energy which only happens at the best of concerts.
Are we not being critical enough?
It’s worth pointing out that Smith’s hat wasn’t very nice – a point which he noticed half-way through by disposing of it.
Yes, they were that good.
Image courtesy of Man Alive, via Flickr, with thanks
